Software Guidance Navigation & Control Engineer Space

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 across military defense, space exploration, and biomedical engineering.

Software Guidance Navigation and Control Engineer 2 develops software for cutting‑edge space and defense systems used by the U.S. Government and commercial customers, as well as internal R&D projects. The role focuses on designing, integrating, and deploying advanced guidance, navigation, and control (GN&C) algorithms and software for systems operating in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

• Evaluate requirements, propose solutions, and explore design trades to support system design.
• Design algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develop embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Analyze designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develop and execute software tests to verify compliance with requirements.
• Evaluate test results to determine problem causes and develop solutions for inefficiencies.
• Prepare technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicate with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe design and deliverables.
• Contribute content to technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
• Participate in tag‑ups and informal meetings with group leads and colleagues.
• Derive task‑level or component‑level requirements from system requirements.
• Track priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ or related tools.
• Knowledge of basic software development standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Foundational knowledge of autonomy, guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) technology.
• Knowledge of real‑time software development tools.
• Experience in designing, developing, and validating real‑time algorithms and software.
• Strong background in control systems theory.
• Clear communication of work assignments to team members.
• Ability to track priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s or PhD in a related field is preferred.

3-5 years of software engineering or related experience is required.

3-5 years of GN&C algorithm/software engineering experience is required.

Houston, Texas

US base salary range: $75,000.00 – $.

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

Draper supports work‑life balance programs including workplace flexibility, employee clubs, health and finance workshops, off‑site 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. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact