Senior Guidance & Control Engineer

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.

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The Senior Autonomy, Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer develops software for cutting‑edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers, as well as internal R&D projects. A Guidance and Control (G&C) Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced G&C algorithms and software for systems able to operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

• 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 inefficiencies or problems.
• Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe design and deliverables.
• Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• 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.

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

• 5-10 years of software engineering or related experience is required.

Applicants selected for this opportunity will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

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Cambridge, Massachusetts

$82,300.00 - $

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.

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.

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