Senior Guidance & Control Engineer

Draper Labs; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 82,300 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper is seeking a Senior Guidance and Control Engineer to develop software for space and defense systems. The role involves designing, implementing, and validating GNC algorithms and real-time software for complex environments including underwater, ground, air, and space. Requirements include a Bachelor's in Aerospace or Electrical Engineering, 5–10 years of related experience, and proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, C/C++, and Python.

A security clearance is preferred. Location: Cambridge, MA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Master's or PhD in a related field is preferred.
• 5-10 years of software engineering or related experience is required.

Responsibilities

• Evaluates requirements and proposes solutions for design trades.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Analyzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develops and executes software tests to verify requirements compliance.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements.
• Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

MATLAB

Simulink

C/C++

Python

Real-time software

GNC algorithms

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Electrical Engineering

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. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary

Senior Guidance and Control Engineer develops software for cutting‑edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers, as well as internal R&D projects. A Senior G&C Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced G&C algorithms and software for systems able to operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

Duties / Responsibilities

• Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Analyzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develops and executes software tests to check compliance with requirements.
• Evaluates results to establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficiencies.
• Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables.
• Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills / Abilities

• Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of autonomy and GNC algorithms and technology.
• Knowledge of real‑time software development tools.
• Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real‑time algorithms and software.
• Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques.
• Significant knowledge of the design and analysis of control systems.
• Significant knowledge of design and implementation of trajectory design/optimization algorithms including optimal control techniques.
• Strong project execution and teamwork skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Ability to clearly communicate work assignments to team members.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred.

Experience

• 5-10 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required.

Clearance

Applicants selected for this opportunity will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret clearance is preferred.

Job Location
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139-3563

Salary Range
$82,300.00 – $220,000.00

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].