Principal Systems Architect

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Government security clearance support

Inclusive working environment

Job summary

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. is seeking a Principal Digital Engineering Solution Architect in Cambridge, MA. This role requires applying advanced methodologies to complex systems development across multiple domains including missile defense and space systems.

Candidates should possess a strong engineering background, with a proficiency in modeling tools, and experience in leading teams to drive solutions. Draper values inclusivity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.

Qualifications

• 7-10+ years of experience as a systems engineer or related role.
• Experience with trade-space exploration and analysis of alternatives under uncertainty.
• Strong understanding of data-driven algorithmic disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Work with senior leaders to develop innovative system solutions.
• Lead medium-sized teams and mentor technical staff.
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems and adapt to changes.

Skills

Modeling and simulation

Computer language coding

Descriptive modeling (SysML)

Data visualization

Machine learning

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field

Master’s degree or higher preferred

Tools

Engineering analysis tools

GN&C technologies

Job description

Principal Digital Engineering Solution Architect

Location: Cambridge, MA 02139-3563

Digital Engineering and Enabling Technologies Division seeks a Principal Digital Engineering Solution Architect to apply systems‑thinking and advanced methodologies to developing solutions to complex system‑ and enterprise‑level problems across multiple domains including strategic deterrent, missile defense, hypersonic missiles, space systems, precision guided munitions, and autonomous air/sea vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Work with senior leaders across Draper to analyze and capture customer and stakeholder needs, evaluate technology options, and apply advanced decision‑making strategies to develop innovative system solutions.
• Maintain strong external presence in the Digital Engineering world as a thought leader; understand external trends and map them back to Draper needs and new business development.
• Conceptualize and lead the development of solutions for each project based on lifecycle needs, acting as a product owner.
• Bridge knowledge gaps across Draper and build cross‑functional teams to meet customer and internal needs.
• Lead complex assignments with minimal management direction and evolving task priorities; mentor technical staff and development teams to meet deadlines while managing multiple competing priorities.
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems, develop requirements, propose solutions when requirements are unclear, and adapt to changes.
• Identify risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
• Lead medium‑sized teams (5-10 people), align them toward program goals, and build trust within the team.
• Provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes; apply analysis techniques across various technical challenges and disciplines.
• Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers.
• Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve program goals.
• Mentor team members, recognize strengths and weaknesses, and provide constructive feedback.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field; master’s degree or higher preferred.
• 7‑10+ years of experience as a systems engineer or related role.
• Proficiency with modeling and simulation, computer language coding, descriptive modeling (e.g., SysML), STPA, and other engineering analysis tools.
• Knowledge of GN&C, avionics architectures, fault tolerance, cyber/security, communications/encryption, threat modeling, or other relevant technologies.
• Experience with trade‑space exploration and analysis of alternatives under uncertainty.
• Experience in data visualization and storyboarding.
• Strong understanding of data‑driven algorithmic disciplines such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, numerical optimization, statistical and probabilistic modeling for systems with underlying physics and sparse multidimensional data.
• Passion for building rapid prototypes, demonstrating proof‑of‑concept, and driving productization.
• Prior technical leadership, stakeholder engagement, and management experience.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with national experts from academia, national laboratories, and industry.
• Ability to create and present senior‑level communications for internal and external customers.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience leading or participating in organizational transformations.
• Expertise with INCOSE Systems Engineering Handbook, Department of Defense Acquisition Framework, or other relevant systems engineering standards.
• Experience modeling DoD weapons, navigation, or communications systems.
• Experience with new business development, generating white papers, and new proposal content.

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

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].