Sensor Signal Processing Engineer-ALL LEVELS

Draper•Cambridge, MA

5d•$62,500 - $220,000•Onsite

About The Position

Draper’s Acoustic and Vibration Technologies group develops sensor technology for critical national security applications. Its core competencies include advanced sensor architecture, analog and digital signal processing, and feedback control of dynamic systems, applied across biotechnology, electronic, strategic, and space systems programs. The role involves conceiving, developing, and delivering prototype sensing solutions for current and prospective customer opportunities. Relevant areas include sound, vibration, and optical sensing; low-noise analog signal conditioning; embedded digital signal processing; closed-loop transducer systems; and shaping and capturing opportunities that address urgent customer needs. The group also rapidly develops new business and capabilities in acoustics, optics, and related technologies. The engineer develops and applies advanced design methods, theories, and research techniques; analyzes and recommends design approaches for prototype or production requirements; and plans and conducts hardware projects or project phases. Work may include developing quantum, optical, and/or photonic sensors and instruments, providing technical consultation and work leadership, recommending performance improvements and cost reductions, and analyzing technical problems to determine root causes and implement corrective solutions. The role also involves maintaining effective internal and external relationships and performing other related duties. Applicants selected for the position must obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance. Draper is hiring at all levels from entry through Principal.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering, optics, or a similar field.
0–3 years of experience in Physics Engineering or a related field.
Proficiency in a programming language.
Ability to write software routines for laboratory experiments, including data collection, storage, and basic data reduction.
Consistency, accountability, and flexibility when managing multiple and competing priorities.
Ability to lead technical solutions to complex user requirements.
Excellent communication, technical writing, oral presentation, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance if selected.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. degree preferred.
Experience or interests aligned with two or more of the following areas: sound, vibration, and optical sensing; low-noise analog signal conditioning; embedded digital signal processing; closed-loop transducer systems; or entrepreneurial opportunity development.
Familiarity with sensing technologies and examples including APS, AVS, LDV, ANVC, SiPM, SONAR, or LiDAR.
Familiarity with JFETs, discrete pre- and power amplifiers, ADCs/DACs, and modulated sensor readout circuitry.
Ability to develop real-time filters and algorithms for rapid prototyping, low-power MCUs, or FPGAs.
Experience or interest in novel acoustic MEMS sensors, accelerometers, and noise-control systems.

Responsibilities

Develop and apply advanced design methods, theories, and research techniques.
Analyze, develop, and recommend design approaches to meet prototype or production requirements.
Plan and conduct hardware projects or phases of projects.
Develop quantum, optical, and/or photonic sensors and instruments.
Provide technical consultation and work leadership to other team members as needed.
Recommend performance improvements and cost-reduction efforts.
Apply quantitative analysis to determine root causes of highly technical problems and propose, develop, and implement corrective solutions.
Develop and maintain effective internal and external relationships.
Write software routines to run laboratory experiments, including data collection, storage, and basic data reduction.
Perform other related duties as assigned.