Principal Avionics Electrical 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.

We are seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to support our growing demand for the design of avionics solutions across numerous programs. This position will require extensive knowledge and experience designing complex electronic solutions that are integrated into large‑scale systems. The engineer develops the architecture, designs circuits, performs simulations, assists ECAD with layout, verifies and tests the designs. The engineer also performs a variety of engineering activities throughout the life cycle to support planning, requirements development, documentation, test, and deployment.

Example designs performed under this position may include single‑slot flight computers including FPGAs and processors, memory support modules, communication interface designs, backplane interconnect designs, along with common power and timing circuits used in these scenarios. Understanding of signal integrity and power integrity is extremely valuable in these types of complex, multi‑card avionics systems, especially as designs move toward miniaturization.

• Translates project and system requirements into well‑defined hardware architectures working with cross‑functional teams.
• Innovatively solves issues, drives completion of the project to schedule, and collaborates with other technical contributors.
• Builds, debugs, and tests prototypes and deliverable hardware.
• Prepares documentation for manufacturing and provides continuous support.
• Researches and enables innovative solutions for cutting‑edge designs.
• Builds collaborative and multidisciplinary teams to develop reliable, cost‑effective end solutions.
• Independently drives solutions to complex problems, develops requirements, proposes ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapts appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Supports business development activities, including leading the development of proposals and engaging with sponsors.
• Identifies program/system‑level technical risks and develops and executes mitigation strategies.
• Manages multidisciplinary tasks with a cross‑functional team and effectively communicates status to project leadership and customers.
• Develops, documents, and teaches best practices to less experienced teammates.

• Proficiency in electronic design.
• Ability to write detailed design specifications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks.
• Thorough understanding of engineering theories and procedures.
• Strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve program goals.

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field.
• Advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in electrical engineering or related field.

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

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