Jobs and Careers
DR

Senior Hardware Instrumentation Engineer

Draper
United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 11 Feb 2026
💰 $220,000/yr($82,300/yr$220,000/yr)

About the role

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 Hardware Instrument Engineer (SMTS) applies scientific analysis and experimental methods, to design develop and evolve sensor instrument technology to meet the changing demands of our customers. Hardware Instrument Engineers are expected to follow the full Lifecyle of instruments from concept through manufacturing. Devices include, but are not limited to Electro-mechanical, Electro-Optical and MEMS sensors systems. Performs responsibilities independently.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
• Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction to design and develop precision instruments.
• Actively mentor less experienced Hardware Instrument engineers.
• Designs experiments, and experimental precision instruments to prove which design concepts are viable and optimal.
• Collaborates with other engineers to design and develop prototype and production hardware to meet the application needs.
• Collaborates with other groups to integrate precision instruments into larger systems, delivering on performance metrics.
• Develops initial processes for the fabrication of custom designed instruments.
• Drafts and presents formal technical documents, reports, and testing results to manager for approval.
• Provides training related to devices to employees, sub-contractors and/or customers.
• Performs independent research when needed for solving problems.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Understanding of the design, development, and application of a wide variety of instruments.
• Understanding of the processes used in the fabrication of precision instrument hardware.
• 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, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, and/or other design & analysis tools relevant to your discipline.

Education
Requires a bachelors degree in Mechanical, Applied Physics, Electrical or Computer Engineering required; Masters or PhD degree preferred.

Experience
Requires 5-10 years of experience in Hardware Instrument Engineering or related.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a US 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

$82,300.00 - $220,000.00

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 ranging from pho

Apply for this role

Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.

Apply Now →Generate Application Kit

Free account required — sign up in 30s

Company

Draper

View company profile →