Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

About the role

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: Draper Mechanical Engineers develop novel solutions to customer driven problems including ruggedized miniature electro-mechanical systems, systems for harsh environments (e.g. high-g, high temperature, high vibration), dynamic mechanisms, and autonomous systems. The mechanical design team is responsible for the full cycle of mechanical design from concept exploration of multiple potential solutions through trade study analysis, down-selection, prototyping and testing, and finally delivery. The Mechanical design engineers work to solve some of our nations most challenging problems. Job Description: - Performs mechanical design concept exploration, trade study analysis, down-selection, prototyping, and testing with minimal guidance from group leader. - Help define the design 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. - Performs other duties as assigned. Skills/Abilities - Curiosity-driven approach to solving complex, customer-driven problems as part of a multi-disciplinary team. - Collaborate and communicate effectively and openly with multi-disciplinary program team members, program leadership, and non-technical personnel. - Team player able to work in a fast-paced environment. - Ability to balance multiple competing tasks and demands. - Thorough understanding of applied math and physics. - Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. - Proficient with general modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and/or other design & analysis tools relevant to your discipline. Education Requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant field. Master's degree is preferred.