Principal Optical 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 an innovative and driven Principal Optical Engineer (PMTS) to lead the charge in developing next‑generation optical sensors. In this role, you will bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and real‑world application. You will be responsible for architecting novel sensor technologies, driving technical maturation, and securing the funding required to bring these innovations to life. As a senior technical leader, you will also build, mentor, and manage diverse cross‑functional teams of engineers to turn complex concepts into market‑ready solutions.

• Designing, analyzing, integrating components with optical devices, and demonstrating device prototypes.
• Develop and build systems and products based on optic, photonic and laser technologies.
• Interact with device, hardware and software design teams to develop optical systems; specify, select and qualify active and passive optical components, developing and benchmarking system performance models.
• Develop and implement test procedures and/or evaluate and select appropriate test instrumentation.
• Provide multi‑discipline support to instrumentation production by resolving technical issues associated with components, parts, products or systems.
• Test new and existing designs and document changes through a formal engineering change notification process.
• Provide recommendations for cost‑reduction efforts.
• Apply quantitative analysis in determining root cause of highly technical problems and propose, develop and implement solutions for corrective action.
• Develop and maintain effective internal and external relationships.
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems – develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) in cyber security, able to plan, design, and execute large‑scale technical software and hardware solutions.
• Provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines.
• Identify program/system‑level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them.
• Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers; demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time‑management skills to achieve program goals.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Proficiency in digital and analog electronics circuit design, high‑performance, real‑time embedded firmware development.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Excellent mechanical 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.

Requires a bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. Masters or PhD degree preferred.

10–15 years experience in Optical Engineering or a related field required.

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

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139‑3563

The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $95,000.00 – $. Our salary range is determined by role, level, and location and reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US 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 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