Electronics Hardware Design Engineer

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA.

We are seeking an Electronic Hardware Design Engineer to join the Embedded Electronics group. The engineer will develop, test and oversee manufacturing of PCBs, analog and digital circuits, electronic equipment, sensors, motors, radar and navigation systems, and support a multidisciplinary team under a long‑standing contract.

• Translate project and system requirements into well‑defined hardware architectures working with cross-functional teams.
• Design and/or complete instruments including microprocessors, power, and analog components.
• Innovatively solve issues, drive completion of the project to schedule, and collaboratively work with other technical contributors.
• Build and test prototypes, debug, and prepare documentation for manufacturing and support.
• Research and enable innovative solutions for cutting‑edge designs.
• Engage other engineers and partners to develop reliable, cost‑effective solutions for products.
• Collaborate and communicate with management, internal, and development partners regarding design status, project progress, and issue resolution.
• Independently execute assignments with minimal oversight.
• Apply technical knowledge to solve problems.
• Contribute high‑quality content for technical reports and presentations with minimal guidance.
• Proactively identify needs and concerns associated with design decisions and communicate them to project leadership.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Proficiency in electronic design, microprocessor or embedded computing.
• Understanding of design and general computer architecture.
• Ability to write detailed design specifications.
• Computer programming and coding abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time‑management skills with proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks.
• Thorough understanding of engineering theories and procedures.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering or related field. Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

3-5 years in Electronic or Electrical Engineering or related field.

Experience crafting sophisticated electronic systems using commercial off‑the‑shelf FGPAs, processors, or systems on a chip (SOCs). Start quickly on sophisticated PCB designs including digital electronics, sensor interfaces, and power distribution design with limited oversight and learning curve. The ability to program FPGAs and microcontrollers is expected only at a level required to understand the design of the supporting hardware.

Cambridge, Massachusetts,

$75,000 – $156,000 (base salary only, without 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. 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