Principal Optical Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Work-life balance

Flexible work options

Employee clubs

Off-site events

Discounts to museums

Job summary

Draper in Cambridge, MA seeks a Principal Optical Engineer (PMTS) to lead next‑gen optical sensors, bridging cutting‑edge research and market applications. You will architect sensor tech, mature concepts, and fund projects while building and guiding diverse engineering teams to deliver robust, scalable solutions.

The role emphasizes SME-level cyber security input, system‑level risk management, and collaboration across hardware and software domains within a nationally important program.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in Optical Engineering, Physics or related field.
• Masters/PhD preferred for advanced research leadership.
• 10–15 years of Optical Engineering experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and integration of optical sensor systems.
• Architect novel sensor technologies and drive maturation.
• Mentor and manage cross-functional engineering teams.
• Define test procedures and validate performance models.
• Interface with hardware/software teams to optimize systems.
• Assess risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Support security and compliance considerations on programs.
• Develop, document, and teach best engineering practices.

Skills

Electronics design

Embedded firmware

Communication

Analytical skills

Time management

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's in Optical Engineering or Physics

Master's/PhD preferred

Job description

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees 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. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary

We are seeking an innovative and driven Principal Optical Engineer (PMTS) to lead the charge in developing next-generation optical sensors. 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. As a senior technical leader, you will also build, mentor, and manage diverse, cross-functional teams of engineers to turn complex concepts into market-ready solutions.

Job Description

Duties/Responsibilities

• Designing, analyzing, integrating components with optical devices, and demonstrating device prototypes.
• Develops, builds and tests systems and products based on optic, photonic and laser technologies.
• Interacts 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.
• Develop and implement test procedures and/or evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation.
• Provides multi-discipline support to instrumentation production by resolving technical issues associated with components, parts, products or systems.
• Testing of new and existing designs and documentation of changes through a formal engineering change notification process.
• Provide recommendations for cost reduction efforts.
• Apply quantitative analysis in determining root cause of highly technical problems and propose, develop and implement solutions for corrective action.
• Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems; develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) in cyber security, able to plan, design, and execute large scale technical software and hardware solutions.
• Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines.
• Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them.
• Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers; demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve program goals.
• Performs 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.
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Excellent mechanical skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent 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 related field. Masters or PhD degree preferred.

Experience

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

Additional Job Description

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

Job Location

City: Cambridge

State: Massachusetts

Postal Code: 02139-3563

The US 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 US 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 US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. 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].