Software Guidance Navigation & Control Engineer for Space Applications

Draper Labs; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 156,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Work-life balance programs

Workplace flexibility

Discounts to local museums and cultural activities

Job summary

Draper Labs in Houston, Texas, is seeking a Software Guidance Navigation and Control Engineer 2 to develop software for advanced space and defense systems. In this role, you will design, integrate, and deploy cutting-edge guidance, navigation, and control algorithms.

Applicants should have a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field, 3-5 years of experience in software engineering, and strong skills in MATLAB, Python, and C/C++. The position offers a competitive salary range and supports work-life balance initiatives.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of software engineering or related experience.
• 3-5 years of GN&C algorithm/software engineering experience.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate requirements and propose solutions to support system design.
• Design algorithms and develop embedded software based on prototypes.
• Analyze designs and develop solutions for inefficiencies.
• Communicate with stakeholders to establish requirements.

Skills

Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong background in control systems theory

Knowledge of real-time software development tools

Education

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

Master’s 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 across military defense, space exploration, and biomedical engineering.

Job Summary

Software Guidance Navigation and Control Engineer 2 develops software for cutting‑edge space and defense systems used by the U.S. Government and commercial customers, as well as internal R&D projects. The role focuses on designing, integrating, and deploying advanced guidance, navigation, and control (GN&C) algorithms and software for systems operating in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluate requirements, propose solutions, and explore design trades to support system 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 verify compliance with requirements.
• Evaluate test results to determine 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 design and deliverables.
• Contribute content to technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
• Participate in tag‑ups and informal meetings with group leads and colleagues.
• Derive task‑level or component‑level requirements from system requirements.
• Track priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ or related tools.
• Knowledge of basic software development standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Foundational knowledge of autonomy, guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) technology.
• Knowledge of real‑time software development tools.
• Experience in designing, developing, and validating real‑time algorithms and software.
• Strong background in control systems theory.
• Clear communication of work assignments to team members.
• Ability to track priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s or PhD in a related field is preferred.

Experience

3-5 years of software engineering or related experience is required.

3-5 years of GN&C algorithm/software engineering experience is required.

Location and Salary

Houston, Texas 77058-2900

US base salary range: $75,000.00 – $156,000.00.

Additional Information

Applicants selected for this position may be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Draper supports work‑life balance programs including workplace flexibility, employee clubs, health and finance workshops, off‑site events, and discounts to local museums and cultural activities.

EEO Statement

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. 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. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].