Principal Optical Engineer

Draper; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper in Cambridge, MA seeks a Principal Optical Engineer (PMTS) to lead next‑generation optical sensors and processing algorithms, bridging advanced research and real‑world applications.

You will architect sensor technologies, drive maturation, secure funding, and mentor cross‑functional teams to deliver market‑ready solutions.

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Masters or PhD preferred.
• 10–15 years of experience in Optical Engineering or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and integrate optical components and prototypes.
• Develop and test systems based on optic, photonic and laser technologies.
• Collaborate with hardware and software teams to develop optical systems and models.
• Create test procedures and select appropriate instrumentation.
• Mentor and lead cross‑functional engineering teams to deliver solutions.

Skills

Digital/analog electronics

Embedded firmware

Communication skills

Mathematical skills

Time management

Analytical thinking

Prioritization

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering or related field

Master’s or PhD preferred

Job description

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation.

Job Description Summary

We are seeking an innovative and driven Principal Optical Engineer (PMTS) to lead the charge in developing next-generation optical sensors and corresponding processing algorithms. In this role, you will bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and real-world application. You will be responsible for architecting novel sensor technologies, driving technical maturation, and securing the funding required to bring these innovations to life. A candidate will ideally have a diverse range of skills in areas such as optical physics, electronics, coding, digital signal processing, and product engineering. As a technical leader, you will also build, mentor, and manage diverse, cross-functional teams of engineers to turn complex concepts into market‑ready solutions.

Responsibilities

• Designing, analyzing, integrating components with optical devices, and demonstrating device prototypes.
• Developing, building, and testing systems and products based on optic, photonic and laser technologies.
• Interacting with device, hardware, and software design teams to develop optical systems; specifying, selecting, and qualifying active and passive optical components, developing and benchmarking system performance models.
• Developing and implementing test procedures and evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation.
• Providing multi‑discipline support to instrumentation production by resolving technical issues associated with components, parts, products, or systems.
• Testing new and existing designs and documenting changes through a formal engineering change notification process.
• Providing recommendations for cost‑reduction efforts.
• Applying quantitative analysis to determine the root cause of highly technical problems and proposing, developing, and implementing solutions for corrective action.
• Developing and maintaining effective internal and external relationships.
• Independently driving solutions to complex problems—developing requirements, proposing ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapting appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Acting as a Subject Matter Expert in cyber security, capable of planning, designing, and executing large‑scale technical software and hardware solutions.
• Providing insight and suggesting design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and applying analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines.
• Identifying program/system‑level technical risks and developing and executing mitigation strategies for them.
• Developing, documenting, and teaching best practices to less experienced engineers; demonstrating strong organization, planning, and time‑management skills to achieve program goals.
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Skills / Abilities

• Proficiency in digital and analog electronics circuit design, high‑performance, real‑time embedded firmware development.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong mathematical and mechanical skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong time‑management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks.
• Thorough understanding of engineering theories and procedures.

Education

Requires a bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. Masters or PhD preferred.

Experience

10-15 years of experience in Optical Engineering or a related field required.

Additional Job Description

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Job Location

City: Cambridge
State: Massachusetts
Postal Code: 02139-3563

Salary Range

The U.S. base salary range for this full‑time position is $95,000.00 - $245,000.00.

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all U.S. locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in U.S. role postings reflect the base salary only and do not include bonuses or benefits.

Draper supports many programs to improve work‑life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off‑site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now at www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high‑performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].