Senior Condensed Matter Physicist

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.

As a Senior Condensed Matter Physicist, the candidate will play a critical role in the development of advanced quantum‑ and condensed matter‑based platforms for highly precise sensing, detection, timing, and measurement systems. The candidate is expected to work on quantum solid‑state sensing and detection and to conceive, design, model, test, and characterize novel methods for using room‑temperature condensed matter structures to outperform conventional detectors.

• Develop and apply advanced design methods, theories, and research techniques.
• Analyze, develop, and recommend design approaches to meet prototype or production requirements.
• Plan and conduct hardware projects or phases of projects.
• Provide technical consultation and work leadership to other team members.
• Develop quantum, optical, and/or photonic sensors and instruments.
• Recommend performance improvements and cost‑reduction efforts.
• Apply quantitative analysis to determine the root cause of highly technical problems and develop and implement corrective solutions.
• Develop and maintain effective internal and external relationships.
• Execute analysis assignments independently under program leadership oversight.
• Contribute content for technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
• Adapt appropriately to changes in program requirements.
• Identify challenges associated with assigned work and communicate them to project leadership.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Proficiency in programming language(s).
• Ability to write software routines to run laboratory experiments, including data collection, storage, and basic data reduction.
• Demonstrated consistency, accountability, and flexibility managing multiple and competing priorities.
• Proven ability to lead technical solutions to complex user requirements.
• Excellent communication, technical writing, oral presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering, optics, or a related field. PhD degree preferred.

• 5–7 years experience in physics engineering or related field with a bachelor’s degree.
• 3–5 years experience in physics engineering or related field with a master’s degree.

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance, which requires proof of U.S. citizenship.

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139‑3563

The U.S. base salary range for this full‑time position is $82,300.00 – $. The range reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all U.S. locations. 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.

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