Distinguished System Concepts Engineer

Distinguished System Concepts Engineer Draper Labs United States, Massachusetts, Cambridge 555 Technology Square (Show on map) May 05, 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:

The Systems Concepts Engineer (DMTS) is responsible for the elucidation of mission needs, mission engineering, architecture/design trade space exploration for integrated hardware/software systems, simulation-based performance analysis for complex systems and system-of-systems, architecture definition using digital engineering (DE) and/or model-based system engineering (MBSE) frameworks, briefing of results to leadership or government sponsors, and development of research and development (R D) proposals.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities

• Independently drive solutions to complex, multidisciplinary problems with a deep understanding of a customer's strategic priorities.
• Capable of helping customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large multidisciplinary teams (greater than 10 people). Aligns team towards program goals and builds trust within the team.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Systems Engineering.
• Contributes to advancing State of the Art (SOA) solutions and techniques in their field
• Able to analyze Draper strategy and work with management to build capability in key areas to help sustain business growth.
• Identifies risks common among multiple programs/technology areas/etc. and develops and executes mitigation strategies for them.
• Works to improve operations at the enterprise level. Identifies areas for improvement within the organization and uses positive collaboration practices to achieve change.
• Actively mentors and seeks opportunities to build depth for their area of expertise. Recognizes strengths and weaknesses in others and gives thoughtful, constructive feedback.
• Performs other duties as assigned. Skills/Abilities
• Highly-organized, capable of approaching problems with a system-level perspective.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• 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. Masters degree or higher preferred. Experience 10-15+ years experience as systems engineer or related role.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a 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 $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 hr@draper.com.