Sr. Product Engineer (Systems Assembly)

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

Draper is seeking a Product Manufacturing Engineers who can bridge the gap between advanced prototype development and low-rate production. Unlike traditional production roles, this position is less about managing day-to-day builds and more about applying a system-level perspective to ensure manufacturability, reliability, and readiness for scaled production.

A key part of this role is the ability to understand and interpret product specifications and requirements, then define the production capabilities and processes needed to consistently meet them. The ideal candidate brings experience with DfX principles, cross-functional collaboration, and vendor management to guide cutting edge hardware from concept through manufacturing transition.

Familiarity with the DoD Manufacturing Readiness Level process is highly desirable. Experience with quality management systems such as ISO9001 or AS9100.

Current in scope Secret or Top Secret security clearance is strongly desired.

What Success Looks Like Here

• Partner with cross-functional design teams to embed DfX activities early in the hardware development cycle.
• Define and support the transition path from prototype to low-rate production, ensuring technical feasibility and reliability.
• Collaborate with external vendors and internal services to align requirements, capabilities, and program deliverables.
• Translate product specifications into clear production capability requirements.
• Communicate DfX study findings and recommend design updates to engineering and leadership.
• Apply strong organizational and planning skills to balance technical, programmatic, and vendor needs.

Duties/Responsibilities

Job Description:

• Use Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs to create product concepts.
• Gather materials or resources needed to design the product.
• Test the product for usability and safety.
• Oversee the manufacturing and production process to set standards
• Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction – contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Provide insight and suggest design or process modifications based on quantitative data or results.
• Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
• Actively mentor less experienced engineers and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback.

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.
• Be a team player able to work in a fast-paced environment with the ability to balance multiple competing tasks and demands.

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant field.

Experience

1-7 years experience in Product Engineering or related.

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:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$62,500.00 - $237,500.00

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 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 ra