Senior Software Autonomy Engineer

Draper; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 82,300 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Workplace flexibility

Health and finance workshops

Employee clubs

Social events

Job summary

Draper, located in Cambridge, MA, is seeking an Autonomy Engineer to design and develop autonomous behaviors for multi-domain teams of autonomous vehicles. The role involves working on cutting-edge defense systems that service both the US Government and commercial entities.

Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's Degree in a related field, considerable experience in software engineering, and strong programming skills, especially in C/C++. The position offers a base salary ranging from $82,300 to $220,000 along with a variety of employee benefits to support work-life balance.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate requirements and propose solutions for design.
• Develop embedded software based on algorithms.
• Track priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.

Skills

MATLAB

Simulink

Python

C/C++

Task and motion planning

Software integration and testing

Hybrid methods

Optimization and resource allocation

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Masters or PhD in a related field

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

We are seeking a highly skilled Autonomy Engineer to design and develop autonomous behaviors for multi-domain heterogeneous teams of autonomous vehicles. The Senior Autonomy Engineer will work on cutting-edge defense systems that is fielded by the US Government and commercial customers in aerial, ground, underwater, and space domains. The preferred candidate has expert knowledge in the following areas:

• Task and motion planning
• Software integration and testing with robotics platforms
• Hybrid methods that augment deterministic autonomy algorithms with AI-based approaches
• Optimization and resource allocation for large team of teams
• C/C++, ROS/ROS2

Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluate requirements, propose solutions, explore design trades to support a design.
• Design algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develop embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Analyze designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develop and execute software tests to check compliance with requirements.
• Evaluate results to establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficiencies.
• Prepare technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicate with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables.
• Track priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and 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 in 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.

Additional Job Description

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

Job Location

City: Cambridge

State: Massachusetts

Postal Code: 02139-3563

Compensation

The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $82,300.00 – $220,000.00.

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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].