Sensor Signal Processing 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.

For more information about Draper, visit

Draper's Acoustic and Vibration Technologies group develops sensor technology for critical national security applications. Core competencies include advanced sensor architecture, analog and digital signal processing, and feedback control of dynamic systems. The team applies these talents across Draper's broad S&T portfolio, which spans Biotechnology, Electronic, Strategic, and Space Systems. We are seeking Sensor Signal Processing Engineers to concept, develop, and deliver prototype sensing solutions for existing and new customer opportunities.

• Sound, vibration, and optical sensing – APS, AVS, LDV, ANVC, SiPM, SONAR, and LiDAR.
• Low‑noise analog signal conditioning – familiarity with JFETs, discrete pre‑ and power amplifiers, ADCs/DACs, and modulated sensor readout circuitry.
• Embedded digital signal processing – create working real‑time filters and algorithms for rapid prototyping, low‑power MCUs, or FPGAs.
• Closed‑loop transducer systems – develop novel acoustic MEMS sensors, accelerometers, and noise‑control systems. Closed‑loop controls are critical to our success.
• Entrepreneurial mindset – interest in shaping and capturing opportunities that solve urgent customer needs.

• 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 project phases.
• 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 propose, develop, and implement solutions for corrective action.
• Develop and maintain effective internal and external relationships.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Proficiency in programming languages.
• 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.

• Bachelor's or master's degree in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering, optics, or a related field. PhD preferred.
• 0–3 years of experience in Physics Engineering or related disciplines.

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

Cambridge, Massachusetts

$62,500.00 – $ (base salary)

• Workplace flexibility and programs to improve work‑life balance.
• 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. 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