The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. · Cambridge, MA

Principal Guidance & Control Engineer at The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. — Cambridge, MA

Full-timeCambridge, MA$95,000–$245,000/yearPosted 2026-07-06Apply on Workday

Full job description

Overview:

Job Description Summary:

The Principal Guidance and Control 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 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

  • 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.
  • Guidance & Control Subject Matter Expert, deep understanding of domain and customer mission areas.
  • Leads with humility and respect, and diverse perspectives to foster an inclusive environment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities

  • Strong MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ skills.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • 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.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • Ability to motivate and develop a team of professionals.
  • Excellent technical judgment, strong written and oral communication skills, and a practical, common-sense approach to getting things done.
  • Knowledge of modern software development lifecycles, standards, processes, and tools.
  • Clearly communicates work assignments to team members.
  • Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.

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

10-15 years of relevant Engineering 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.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563