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 Autonomy, Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer (DMTS) 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 Guidance and Control (G&C) Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced G&C algorithms and software for systems able to operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space. Job Description: Duties/Responsibilities Development/Leadership of Autonomy and GNC algorithms using state of the art theory and proven techniques. Owns the full lifecycle of development - from requirement evaluation and algorithmic design through to software implementation, performance analysis, rigorous testing, and comprehensive technical documentation Communicates with stakeholders to understand requirements and describe the output of their work products Demonstrates strong technical expertise while actively mentoring junior staff and providing leadership to drive innovative project outcomes Independently drives the development of high quality content for technical reports and presentations which shows ownership of their task and an awareness of the intended audience. Capable of defining technical direction while also tracking task priorities, scope, schedule, and cost for large teams Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables. Subject Matter Expert for Autonomy & GNC disciplines, deep understanding of domain and customer mission areas. Leads with humility and respect, and seeks out diverse perspectives to foster an inclusive environment. Leads meetings with internal and external stakeholders and accountability in high-impact situations. Leads complex tasks (multi-disciplinary, high-risk, changing requirements, high visibility), leads large multidisciplinary teams (>10 people). Produces solutions and techniques that impacts not just a single program, but also lines of business and engineering capabilities Maintains an external network associated with subject matter expertise, showcasing connectivity to professional societies and customers Demonstrated strong commitment to lifelong technical evolution, consistently updating skill sets to keep pace with the rapid advancements in Autonomy & GNC theory Skills/Abilities Demonstrated expertise of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) technology. Proficient in one or more programming languages (e.g. C++, Python, MATLAB) Proficient in basic software development standards and tools (e.g. Jira, Git) Excellent communication skills and the ability to articulate complex technical ideas to customers and team members Able to lead and delegate tasking across interdisciplinary teams Derives task-level or component-level requirements from system requirements. Expert knowledge of project execution as well as the ability to scope out new technical work to future customers Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Excellent technical judgment and a practical, common-sense approach to getting things done. Willingness to take on challenging problems Sustained record of helping customers shape problems and needs 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 15 years of relevant engineering experience is required. Additional Job Description: 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 $100,000.00 - $275,000.00 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. 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]. We are in the business of redefining what is possible. Join our inclusive, multidisciplinary team to engineer the groundbreaking solutions of tomorrow. Explore life at Draper with our unique culture and benefits at draper.com.

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2 Nov, 2026

draper

Distinguished Space Systems Engineer

Staff level
Remote
DevOps & Infra

$100k–275k/yr

MA - Cambridge, United States of America

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