Principal Electrical Engineer

Principal Electrical Engineer Draper Labs United States, Massachusetts, Cambridge 555 Technology Square (Show on map) May 04, 2026

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:

We are seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to support our growing demand for the design of avionics solutions across numerous programs. This position will require 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, verifies and test the designs. The engineer also performs a variety of engineering activities throughout the life cycle to support planning, requirements development, documentation, test, and deployment. Example designs performed under this position may include single-slot flight computers including FPGAs and processors, memory support modules, communication interface designs, backplane interconnect designs, along with common power and timing circuits used in these scenarios. Understanding signal integrity and power integrity are extremely valuable in these types of 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, it expects that some level of leadership and mentorship will be provided toward junior staff earlier in their careers.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities Translates project and system requirements into well-defined hardware architectures working with cross-functional teams. Innovatively solves issues, drives completion of the project to schedule, and collaboratively works with other technical contributors. Builds, debugs, and tests prototypes and deliverable hardware. Prepares documentation for manufacturing, and provides continuous support. Researches and enables innovative solutions for cutting-edge designs. Builds collaborative and multidisciplinary teams to develop reliable, cost effective end solutions. Independently drives solutions to complex problems

• develops requirements, proposes ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapts appropriately to changes in requirements.

Supports business development activities including leading the development of proposals and engaging with sponsors. Identifies program/system-level technical risks and develops and executes mitigation strategies. Manages multi-disciplinary tasks with a cross functional team and effectively communicates status to project leadership and customers. Develops, documents, and teaches best practices to less experienced teammates. Skills/Abilities 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 the 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. Education Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field. Advanced Degree preferred. Experience 10+ years experience in electrical engineering or related field.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance. 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 $95,000.00
• $245,000.

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 hr@draper.com.