Role Overview
Draper is hiring a principal-level Distinguished Simulation Engineer. This is a full-time role in Cambridge. posted today. The posted range is $100k to $275k; applications are still in the early window, before most candidates have applied. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.
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Job description
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:
A System Modeling & Simulation Engineer (DMTS) designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems. Simulation applications range from high-level behavioral simulations for visualization and evaluation of system concepts to high-fidelity real-time simulations and Hardware-in-the-Loop infrastructure to support development, integration, test, and sustainment of systems and software.Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
• Architect, integrate, verify and validate system-level simulations in the context of a larger aerospace project life cycle.
• May lead small to mediums size team of engineers as assigned.
• Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
• Design a simulation architecture, including internal and external interfaces, facilities, infrastructure, and models, to satisfy requirements,
• Write and automate test plans.
• Develop real-time hardware interfaces, integrate legacy software models, and develop new software models.
• Acts as a subject matter expert in System Modeling and Simulation engineering.
• Integrate 3D visualization tools.
• Develop and maintain an in house real-time software framework.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with analytical methods, approaches, and data visualization.
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Ability to collaborate within a diverse and multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to quickly understand and integrate new software APIs
• Ability to efficiently triage, debug, and fix software and hardware integration issues
• Ability to develop systems with human factors, UI/UX, usability requirements.
• Knowledge and familiarity with aerospace systems and related sciences.
Education
Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field. PhD. preferred.
Experience
10-15 years of Systems Engineering or related experience.
• Professional software development experience in a multi-disciplinary, team setting
• Significant experience with C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink.
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:
CambridgeJob Location - State:
MassachusettsJob Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$100,000.00 - $275,000.00Our 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.
About Draper
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the Distinguished Simulation Engineer position at Draper?
Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Draper. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.
Where is the Distinguished Simulation Engineer position at Draper located?
This position is based in Cambridge. Draper has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.
How much does the Distinguished Simulation Engineer role at Draper pay?
Draper has posted a compensation range of $100k to $275k for this position. Final offers typically vary based on candidate experience, location, and internal salary bands.
When was the Distinguished Simulation Engineer role at Draper posted?
This role was posted on July 23, 2026 (today). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.
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