Senior Navigation Algorithm 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 the promise of delivering successful and usable solutions, spanning from military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering.

The Senior Navigation Algorithm Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced navigation algorithms and software for systems capable of operating in complex environments—including underwater, ground, air, and space—used by the US Government and commercial customers, as well as internal R&D projects.

• 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 inefficient or problematic areas.
• 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.
• 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.
• Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred.

• 5‑10 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required.

• Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret Clearance is preferred.

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139‑3563

US base salary range for this full‑time position is $82,300.00–$.

• 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 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