Principal Electrical 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

We’re seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to support our growing demand for the design of avionics solutions across numerous programs. This position requires extensive knowledge and experience designing complex electronic solutions that are integrated into large‑scale systems. The engineer develops the architecture, designs circuits, performs simulations, assists ECAD with layout, and verifies and tests the designs. The engineer also performs a variety of engineering activities throughout the life cycle to support planning, requirements development, documentation, testing, and deployment.

Example designs include single‑slot flight computers with FPGAs and processors, memory support modules, communication interface designs, backplane interconnect designs, as well as common power and timing circuits. Understanding signal integrity and power integrity is extremely valuable in these complex, multi‑card avionics systems, especially as designs move toward miniaturization. While flexible based upon project timelines, the nature of this role will require being able to support in‑office work most days.

As a principal engineer, some level of leadership and mentorship toward junior staff is expected.

• Translate project and system requirements into well‑defined hardware architectures working with cross‑functional teams.
• Innovatively solve issues, drive completion of the project to schedule, and collaborate with other technical contributors.
• Build, debug, and test prototypes and deliverable hardware.
• Prepare documentation for manufacturing, and provide continuous support.
• Research and enable innovative solutions for cutting‑edge designs.
• Build collaborative and multidisciplinary teams to develop reliable, cost‑effective end solutions.
• Independently drive solutions to complex problems—develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes.
• Support business development activities including leading proposal development and engaging with sponsors.
• Identify program/system‑level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
• Manage multidisciplinary tasks with a cross‑functional team and effectively communicate status to project leadership and customers.
• Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced teammates.

• Proficiency in electronic design.
• Ability to write detailed design specifications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication 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.
• Strong organization, planning, and time‑management skills to achieve program goals.

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field. Advanced degree preferred.

10+ years experience in electrical engineering or related field.

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

Huntsville, Alabama 35806

The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $95,000.00 – $. 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.…