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Hardware Physics Engr PMTS


Job Location:

Cambridge, MA - USA

Yearly Salary: USD 95000 - 245000
Posted: 9 October 2026 (3 days ago)
Application Deadline: 6 January 2027
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Overview:

Draper is an independent nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge MA. The 2000 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 .

Job Description Summary:

A Principal Hardware Physics Engineer is a physicist applied physicist optical engineer electrical engineer or similar who works at the intersection of physics and engineering. Someone in this role designs develops modifies and tests hardware and produces prototype designs. Diagnoses malfunctions and makes modifications to produce desired results. Compiles and evaluates design and test data and prepares technical specifications and is responsible for planning and conducting projects or phases of projects.

The new hire will work on one or more projects to deliver innovative solutions to complex problems by developing novel multi-physics systems that may integrate nuclear engineering MEMS sensors optics electronics and actuators into aerospace systems which address critical national needs. The person will need to work across organizations to technically contribute to existing programs and help propose future concepts. Candidates should be interested in novel nuclear systems and precision sensors while being willing to venture into new and unexplored areas. Experience in application areas such as inertial guidance spacecraft development nuclear power and propulsion radiochemistry radiation hardened aerospace systems hypersonic vehicles/modeling and high-power optics/lasers are beneficial but not required. The candidate will be expected to work effectively in a team environment and communicate progress through reports and presentations.

The ideal candidate will have an advanced degree in physics nuclear engineering aerospace engineering mechanical engineering electrical engineering materials science or a related field. Desired skills include:

A strong background in computational analysis using modeling tools such as Comsol Ansys Matlab/Simulink Solidworks TCAD MCNP CEPXS and/or Geant.
Ability to develop creative solutions to complex systems problems by leveraging novel nuclear physics MEMS technology fluid modeling advanced optics and related technologies.
Willingness to occasionally travel (< 1/quarter) for testing or to visit sponsors.
Ability to work with program managers and customers to define needs/requirements help write proposals and eventually lead technical efforts.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
Develops and applies advanced design methods theories and research techniques.
Analyzes develops and recommends design approaches to meet prototype or production requirements.
Responsible for planning and conducting hardware projects or phases of projects.
Develops and applies advanced design methods theories and research techniques.
May provide technical consultation and work leadership to other team members.
Development of quantum optical and/or photonic sensors and instruments.
Provide recommendations for performance improvements and cost reduction efforts.
Apply quantitative analysis in determining root cause of highly technical problems and propose develop and implement solutions for corrective action.
Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
Help define the analysis approach for a particular problem and independently execute assignments.
Contribute high quality content for technical reports and presentations with minimal guidance.
Proactively identify needs and concerns associated with design decisions and communicate them to project leadership.
Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction contribute to requirements development propose ways forward and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
Perform analytical modeling and finite element analysis of complex electro-mechanical systems.
Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines
Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
Actively mentor less experienced engineers and provide thoughtful constructive feedback.
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
Subject Matter Expert (SME) able to perform advanced analytical modeling and finite element analysis of complex electro-mechanical systems
Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical 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.
Performs other related duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities
Proficiency in programming language.
Ability to write software routines to run laboratory experiments including data collection storage and basic data reduction.
Demonstrated consistency accountability and flexibility managing multiple and competing priorities.
Proven ability to lead technical solutions to complex user requirements.
Excellent communication technical writing oral presentation and interpersonal skills.

Education
Requires a masters degree in physics applied physics electrical engineering optics or similar. PhD degree preferred.

Experience
5-10 years experience in Physics Engineering or related with a masters degree.
0-5 years experience in Physics Engineering or related with a PhD degree.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret Clearance is preferred.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you dont 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

$95000.00 - $245000.00

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 agreements 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 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 .


About Company

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As a nonprofit engineering innovation company, Draper solves demanding customer problems with innovative technology. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, program managers and administrative professionals drive the innovative solutions we deliver. Whether working at a ... View more

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