Principal Systems Engineer

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory•Cambridge, MA

25d•Onsite

About The Position

The Digital Engineering and Enabling Technologies Division is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to develop next generation requirements, model-based systems engineering concepts, and cross-domain solutions for domains such as strategic deterrent systems, missile defense systems, hypersonic missiles, space systems, precision guided munitions, and autonomous air/sea vehicles. Our multi-disciplinary teams innovate and develop solutions for full system development lifecycle in areas of importance for national security. Draper has adopted an integrated, model-driven digital mindset in solving Systems Engineering problems spanning the entire lifecycle. From early-lifecycle conceptual system design and architecture, detailed modeling, model-driven customer reviews, verification and validation, integration and testing, to deployment, surveillance and performance monitoring, Draper has a suite of Model Based Systems Engineering solution needs across our projects. Our thinking spans the entire gamut, from “as-designed” to “as-deployed” lifecycle phases in supporting uncompromised delivery of solutions. For this role, the ideal candidate will work as part of an interdisciplinary team. The candidate will support the development of requirements, systems concepts, interface concepts along with digital capabilities like digital twins and digital threads. Due to the nature of the work, candidates must be able to maintain a consistent on-site presence.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field.
7-10+ years experience as systems engineer or related role.
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.

Nice To Haves

Masters degree or higher preferred.
Knowledge and experience in GN&C, avionics architectures, fault tolerance, cyber/security, comms/encryption, threat modeling or other technologies preferred
Proficiency with modeling and simulation, computer language coding, descriptive modeling (e.g. SysML), and/or other engineering analysis methods
Expert-level proficiency in SysML
OMG SysML Certification
Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance.

Responsibilities

Independently drive solutions to complex problems - develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements
Sustained record of successful task leadership. Identifies risks and develops and executes mitigation strategies for them.
Lead medium-sized teams (5-10 people). Reliably aligns team towards program goals and builds trust within the team.
Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Systems Engineering
Provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical challenges and disciplines
Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers
Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve program goals
Actively mentors. Recognizes strengths and weaknesses in others and provides thoughtful constructive feedback.
Performs other duties as assigned.