Senior System Safety Engineer

Draper Labs; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper Labs is seeking a System Safety Engineer to guide safety analyses and requirements management for complex systems in defense and biotechnology. The role requires expertise in various safety domains and involves conducting analyses, developing safety work packages, and promoting a safety culture within the organization.

Benefits

Flexible work-life balance programs

Employee clubs and workshops

Social events and discounts

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of experience for Bachelor’s degree holders; 3-5 years for Master’s.
• Familiarity with standards such as FOD, OSHA, MIL-STD-882.
• Experience with System Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct System Safety Analyses across the lifecycle.
• Develop and deliver safety work packages.
• Promote safety practices internally and externally.

Skills

System Safety

Critical Thinking

Cybersecurity

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Model-based System Engineering tools

Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. With over 2,000 employees, Draper addresses national challenges through innovative solutions in areas such as military defense, space exploration, and biomedical engineering. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work collaboratively to foster innovation. For more information, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

The High Availability Architecture Group within the Systems Engineering directorate seeks a System Safety Engineer to guide concept development, system analysis, and requirements management for complex systems including missile defense, space, and biotechnology. The candidate must have expertise in System Safety, Personnel Safety, Range Safety, Environmental Safety, and Nuclear Weapon Safety Surety, and be familiar with standards such as FOD, OSHA, MIL-STD-882, NAS 411, and others. Responsibilities include conducting safety analyses, developing safety work packages, promoting safety best practices, and documenting insights within Draper’s digital tools.

Job Responsibilities:

• Conduct System Safety Analyses across the lifecycle (e.g., STPA, FHAs, FMECAs, HAZOPs, FTAs, CCAs, Human Error Assessments)
• Develop and deliver safety work packages (Hazard Analysis, Safety Requirements, Safety Architecture, Contingency Scenarios, Anomaly Policies)
• Promote safety practices internally and externally to foster a safety culture
• Assess compliance of technical data packages with safety processes
• Apply critical thinking to solve complex problems and document findings

Additional Responsibilities:

• Develop and track security measures for information and network protection
• Design cybersecurity architecture and define system security requirements
• Configure and troubleshoot security infrastructure
• Monitor systems for security breaches and educate staff on security best practices
• Lead and mentor engineers, manage project priorities, and communicate technical information effectively

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field; Master’s preferred
• 5-10 years of experience for Bachelor’s degree holders; 3-5 years for Master’s

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with System Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA)
• Proficiency with Model-based System Engineering tools (e.g., Cameo, DOORS, Jama Connect)
• Knowledge of Software Safety and relevant DoD standards
• Experience with compliance documentation and risk mitigation
• Ability to develop R&D proposals

Applicants must have or be able to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance; current Secret clearance required, Top Secret preferred.

Connect with Draper for future opportunities. Submit your resume at www.draper.com/careers.

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139-3563

We support work-life balance through flexible programs, employee clubs, workshops, social events, and discounts. Draper is committed to diversity and inclusion; all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, or national origin. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request by contacting [e-mail].