Principal RF Communications Engineer

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees 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 work in a collaborative environment that inspires cross‑fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation.

For more information about Draper, visit

A Principal RF and Communications Engineer is responsible for the design and development of radio frequency (RF) and communications systems. The engineer must demonstrate strong expertise in RF and Communications, troubleshoot complex problems, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary groups including software, hardware, and materials engineering.

• Design RF and Communications systems that solve challenging problems.
• Manage complex engineering projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Develop and maintain effective internal and external relationships.
• Perform analysis and modeling of complex radio frequency systems.
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert in RF and Communications systems.
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems; develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear, and adapt to changes.
• Analyze Draper strategy and collaborate with management to build capabilities for business growth.
• Help customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems.
• Advance state‑of‑the‑art solutions and techniques in the field.
• Contribute to capability expansion, talent acquisition, and mentor graduate students.
• Assemble and deliver customer presentations that inspire confidence in Draper and our work.
• Provide insights and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes.
• Identify program/system‑level technical risks and execute mitigation strategies.
• Document and teach best practices to less experienced engineers.
• Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time‑management skills to achieve program goals.
• Lead cross‑functional teams.
• Support business development activities, including developing proposals and engaging with sponsors.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of RF systems and architectures.
• Foundation of electrical engineering.
• Experience with RF and Communications software tools.
• Hands‑on experience with instrumentation for RF measurements.
• Strong problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; willingness to work in a highly collaborative team environment.
• Excellent management and organizational skills; proven ability to meet deadlines, prioritize tasks, and pay attention to details.

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field required; advanced degree preferred.

10+ years experience in Radio Frequency or Communications Engineering or related field required.

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

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139‑3563

Base salary range: $95,000.00 – $. The range reflects minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Compensation is determined by location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

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. All qualified applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper provides access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact