Software Flight Engr

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

Job summary

Draper Labs in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Software Engineer I to develop high‑performance embedded software for resource‑constrained targets across undersea, terrestrial, air, hypersonics, and space domains. You will participate in the full software development life cycle, design algorithms, implement tests, and collaborate with customers and program leadership to deliver reliable, scalable solutions.

Requires a BS in CS/CE/EE and 0–3 years of software experience.

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor's degree in CS/CE/EE.
• 0–3 years experience in Software Engineering or related.
• Ability to develop for embedded targets.
• Experience with UML/SysML.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience with real-time systems.

Responsibilities

• Executes assignments under program leadership.
• Evaluates requirements and proposes design solutions with guidance.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develops embedded software with guidance.
• Analyzes designs to prove performance.
• Develops and runs software tests to verify requirements.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements.
• Prepares technical data and documentation.
• Adapts to changes in program requirements.
• Identifies challenges and communicates them to leadership.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Embedded development

OS programming

Real-time systems

C/C++

Rust

UML/SysML

JTAG debugging

Documentation

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Computer Engineering/Electrical Engineering

Tools

In-circuit emulators

JTAG debuggers

Laboratory test equipment

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:

The Software Engineer 1 develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets. Develops next-generation resilient and fault tolerant software solutions in the application domains of undersea, terrestrial, air, hypersonics and space. The Engineer is involved in the full software development life cycle.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities

• Executes assignments under the oversight of program leadership
• Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design with guidance.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms with guidance.
• 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.
• Contributes content for technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
• Adapts appropriately to changes in program requirements.
• Identifies challenges associated with assigned work and communicate them to project leadership.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities

• Excellent development and troubleshooting skills on embedded targets.
• Excellent knowledge of OS coding techniques IP protocols interfaces and hardware subsystems.
• Expertise in software development for real-time systems.
• Mastery of high level development languages (e.g. C/C++, Rust).
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of software configuration management tools defect tracking tools and peer review processes.
• Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Experience with UML/SysML.
• Experience with in-circuit emulators, JTAG debuggers and laboratory test equipment.

Education

Requires a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.

Experience

Requires 0-3 years experience in Software Engineering or related.

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 & Compensation

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$82,300.00 - $220,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Inclusive Environment

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].