Full Time: Systems Engineering Senior

Overview Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. 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.

Job Description Summary The Space and Mission Critical Systems group at Draper is seeking a motivated Principal Systems Engineer to perform key systems engineering tasks in a model‑based environment, using formal development and verification processes in support of Draper’s National Security and Space business areas. Leveraging Draper’s expertise in a variety of fields - including GNC, Spacecraft Systems, fault‑tolerant computing, SBC development, and autonomous vehicles - the candidate will support the group’s mission in developing early‑stage concepts all the way through to verified, fully‑functional, deployed solutions.

Systems Engineering Tasks Developing systems concepts, requirements, and architectures

Highly robust system engineering practices for mission critical systems

Predicting and analyzing mission performance and reliability

Use of Model Based Systems Engineering tools

Duties and Responsibilities 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

Identify risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them

Subject‑matter expert in systems engineering

Provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and apply analysis techniques across a range of technical challenges and disciplines

Identify program/system‑level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies

Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers

Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time‑management skills to achieve program goals

Practical experience with simulation‑based performance analysis

Practical experience with the systems engineering process

Roles may require proficiency with modeling and simulation, computer language coding, descriptive modeling (e.g. SysML), STPA, and/or other engineering analysis tools

Knowledge of GN&C, avionics architectures, fault tolerance, cyber/security, comms/encryption, threat modeling or other technologies may be required as defined in the summary

Education Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field

Experience 7-10+ years experience as a systems engineer or related role

preferred) with 2+ years’ experience in a relevant engineering discipline (internships and co‑ops may be considered for experience)

Experience with two or more of the following: stakeholder needs and use case analysis, requirements development and management, system architecture and conceptual design, operational concept development, ICD development, risk management

Preferred Qualifications Certification or degree in Systems Engineering

Experience with Matlab and Simulink

Security Clearance Requirement Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a United States government security clearance and meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Current in‑scope Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility is highly desired.

Compensation The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $95,000.00-$245,000.00. The range displayed on each posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Payroll benefits are not included in the base salary.

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.