> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1447627-principal-guidance-control-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1447627-principal-guidance-control-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Principal Guidance & Control Engineer

- **Company:** Draper Labs
- **Location:** Cambridge, MA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $95,000.0 - $245,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Programming Tools, Embedded Software, Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, Real-Time Operating Systems, Simulink, Technical Data Management Systems
- **Published:** July 26, 2026
- **Apply:** https://jobs.localjobnetwork.com/apply/add/86117448/1

## About the Role

* Strong MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ skills.
 * Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
 * Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
 * Knowledge of real-time software development tools.
 * Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real-time algorithms and software.
 * Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques.
 * Strong leadership and team management skills.
 * Ability to motivate and develop a team of professionals.
 * Excellent technical judgment, strong written and oral communication skills, and a practical, common-sense approach to getting things done.
 * Knowledge of modern software development lifecycles, standards, processes, and tools.
 * Clearly communicates work assignments to team members.
 * Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.

Education

 * Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.

 * Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred.

Experience
10-15 years of relevant Engineering experience is required.

## Description

* Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design.
 * Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
 * Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
 * Analyzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
 * Develops and executes software tests to check compliance with requirements.
 * Evaluates results to establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficient or problems.
 * Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
 * Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables.
 * Guidance & Control Subject Matter Expert, deep understanding of domain and customer mission areas.
 * Leads with humility and respect, and diverse perspectives to foster an inclusive environment.
 * Performs other duties as assigned.


## Related Videos

- [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch)
- [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions)
- [AI Pair Programming with GitHub Copilot at SAP: Looking Back, Looking Forward!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1546-ai-pair-programming-with-github-copilot-at-sap-looking-back-looking-forward)
- [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies)
- [Engineering/Manager Pendulum: Generating compound interest on your career](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100348-engineering-manager-pendulum-generating-compound-interest-on-your-career)
- [Exploring AI: Opportunities and Risks in Development](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1267-exploring-ai-opportunities-and-risks-in-development)

## Related Articles

- [Résumé-Driven Development: How IT trends affect the job market for software developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/59-resume-driven-development-how-it-trends-affect-the-job-market-for-software-developers)
- [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard)
- [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology)
- [How to Become an AI Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/331-how-to-become-an-ai-engineer)
- [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk)
- [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering)