Senior Software Autonomy Engineer

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

Job summary

Draper in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Senior Autonomy Engineer to design and develop autonomous behaviors for multi-domain heterogeneous teams of autonomous vehicles. You will work on defense systems for US Government and commercial customers across aerial, ground, underwater and space domains.

The role requires strong skills in C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, Python, ROS/ROS2, and expertise in autonomy, trajectory optimization, and real-time software. A security clearance is required or obtainable.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required in aerospace, electrical, or related field.
• Masters or PhD preferred.
• 510 years of software engineering or related experience.

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 inefficient or problems.
• 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.

Education

Bachelors Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a 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.

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 are 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

Job Description

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 inefficient or problems.
• 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 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

Job Location - State

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code

02139-3563

Salary

$82,300.00 - $220,000.00

EEO Statement

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].