Principal Systems Engineer — Model-Based Digital Engineering

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

Job summary

Draper, a nonprofit R&D organization based in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to advance next-generation requirements and model-driven concepts across domains like missile defense and space systems. The role emphasizes cross-domain solutions, digital twins, and lifecycle engineering, with a strong on-site collaboration mindset.

The candidate should have 7–10+ years in systems engineering, a BS in a related field (masters preferred), and expertise in SysML, MBSE, and risk

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics (required).
• Master's degree preferred for advanced responsibilities.
• Expert-level SysML proficiency and model-based systems engineering knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Independently drive solutions to complex problems in systems engineering.
• Lead medium-sized teams (5–10 people) and align them to program goals.
• Provide SME guidance in systems engineering and tool usage (SysML, modeling).
• Identify program/system-level risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Develop, document, and teach best engineering practices to peers.
• Mentor teammates and communicate effectively across disciplines.

Skills

SysML

Modeling & simulation

Systems engineering

GN&C knowledge

Avionics architectures

Cyber security

Threat modeling

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering/physics/mathematics

Master's degree preferred

Tools

STPA

Job description

Draper, a nonprofit R&D organization based in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to advance next-generation requirements and model-driven concepts across domains like missile defense and space systems. The role emphasizes cross-domain solutions, digital twins, and lifecycle engineering, with a strong on-site collaboration mindset.

The candidate should have 7–10+ years in systems engineering, a BS in a related field (masters preferred), and expertise in SysML, MBSE, and risk