Cambridge, MA, USA
143 days ago
Senior Software Defined Radio Engineer

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 Senior Electronic/Electrical Engineer designs, develops, tests, and oversees the manufacturing of electrical printed circuit boards (PCBs), analog and digital circuits, electronic equipment, sensors, motors, radar and navigation systems. The engineer develops the architecture, designs circuits, performs simulations, performs physical layout, verifies and tests designs. Performs a variety of engineering activities throughout the life-cycle to support: planning, design, test, deployment, and sustainment.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
• Translate project and system requirements into well-defined hardware architectures working with cross-functional teams.
• Design and/or complete instruments including microprocessors, power, and analog components.
• Innovatively solve issues, drive completion of the project to schedule, and collaboratively work with other technical contributors.
• Build and test prototypes, debug, and prepare documentation for manufacturing, and support.
• Research and enable innovative solutions for cutting-edge designs.
• Engage other engineers and partners to develop reliable, cost effective and solutions for products.
• Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction – contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Independently performs complex electronic architectures and designs.
• Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on simulation results.
• Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
• Ability to manage a task with multiple engineers and effectively communicate status to project leadership and customers.
• Actively mentor less experienced engineers and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities
• Proficiency in electronic design, microprocessor or embedded computing.
• Understanding of design and general computer architecture.
• Ability to write detailed design specifications.
• Computer programming and coding abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks.
• Thorough understanding of engineering theories and procedures.

Education
Bachelor's degree in Electronic or Electrical Engineering or related field. Master's Degree preferred.

Experience
5-7 years experience in Electronic or Electrical Engineering or related.

Additional Job Description:

As software defined radio (SDR) lead, you will assist in the development of custom/novel systems utilizing SDRs for a variety of applications. Responsibilities include collaborating with DSP and electronics experts while developing custom SDR control code for a variety of applications (e.g. RF signature detection, Wi-Fi, etc.) as well as mentoring junior staff.

Required Qualifications:   

BS/MS in Electrical engineering, computer engineering or similar with 5+ years specific hands-on experience with Software Defined Radios for multiple projectsVery experienced with Ettus USRPs, includingUHD (software driver and API for Ettus USRP products)GNURadio and GNURadio CompanionRFNoC tool for enabling FPGA processing in USRP devicesVery experienced with hands-on test/measurement to validate the performance of SDRs or general transceivers; Typical measurements might include Local oscillator phase noiseFrequency synchronization across channelsIdentifying and quantifying noise contributors (LNAs, ADC, LO phase noise, etc.)Characterization of triggering repeatability and synchronization stabilityChannel performance optimization and matchingFPGA programming experienceExperience with digital communication systems, PHY layer topics, channel coding algorithms and modulation theoryProficient in C++ and python

Preferred Qualifications:  

Proficient in using MATLAB for DSP signal analysisDesign knowledge of digital filtersAbility to efficiently document test setup descriptions, test parameters, assumptions, results and takeaway messages in parallel with development efforts

Travel: 

Though this role is based in Cambridge, MA, consideration could be made for working from our Reston, VA office and traveling to Cambridge 1-2wks per month.

 

Security Requirement:    

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain a Top Secret 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

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Draper is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We understand the value of diversity 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, gender identity, 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.

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