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Draper

Senior Navigation Algorithm Engineer

Salary$75k – $245k
LocationCambridge, MA
Work modehybrid
Typefull-time
SenioritySenior
Experience5–10 yrs
Company size1,001–5,000 people
First seenOct 4, 2026 · 1w ago
Verified live1h ago
At a glanceSummarised by Seekless from the posting.
Must have13
Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required
5-10 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required
Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Knowledge of Autonomy and GNC algorithms and technology
Knowledge of real-time software development tools
Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real-time algorithms and software
Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems
Significant knowledge of design and implementation of trajectory design/optimization algorithms including optimal control techniques
Strong project execution and teamwork skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
Ability to clearly communicate work assignments to team members
Nice to have3
Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques
Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred
Secret Clearance is preferred
Eligibility1
Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance
Skills
MATLAB
Simulink
Python
C/C++
Benefits
Workplace flexibility
Employee clubs
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 www.draper.com.
Job Description Summary:
The Senior Navigation Algorithm Engineer develops software for cutting-edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Senior Navigation Algorithms Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced navigation algorithms and software for systems able to operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space
Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
• Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Analyzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develops and executes software tests to check compliance with requirements.
• Evaluates results to establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficient or problems.
• Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables.
• Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
• Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of Autonomy and GNC algorithms and technology.
• Knowledge of real-time software development tools
• Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real-time algorithms and software.
• Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques.
• Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems.
• Significant knowledge of design and implementation of trajectory design/optimization algorithms including optimal control techniques.
• Strong project execution and teamwork skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
•
Ability to clearly communicate work assignments to team members.
Education
• Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred.
Experience
5-10 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required.
Additional Job Description:
Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret Clearance is preferred.
Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don’t find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.
Job Location - City:
Cambridge
Job Location - State:
Massachusetts
Job Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563
The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$75,000.00 - $245,000.00
Legal
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job 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. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement’s approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.
Benefits
Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. 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. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.
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 [email protected].
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