Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts
Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are in strong demand, with the state ranking among the most active U.S. markets for this role across defense electronics, medical devices, robotics, and semiconductor design from entry-level firmware roles through principal engineer positions. The heaviest hiring concentrates in Greater Boston, the Route 128 technology corridor, and the Lowell-Woburn area, where employers such as Raytheon Technologies, Boston Scientific, and Analog Devices maintain large embedded engineering teams. The most sought-after specialties in Massachusetts listings are real-time operating systems, FPGA development, and safety-critical embedded software for regulated industries. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 21+ Embedded Systems Engineer jobs
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:
The Embedded Microsystems and Sensors Group at Draper is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to develop and manage requirements, architecture, interface documentation, and system specifications for systems in mission domains such as: embedded secure communications, advanced electronics miniaturization, edge processing and computing, trustworthy secure platforms, and autonomous air/sea vehicles.This role will involve working across a multi-disciplinary team (including external and internal stakeholders) innovating new microelectronics system solutions over the full system development lifecycle.
The group has multidisciplinary proficiencies in secure systems architecture, hardware security and resilience, software security and resilience, system validation and accreditation, sensor development and validation, and cryptography.
Job Description:
- Independently drive solutions to complex, multidisciplinary problems with a deep understanding of a customer's strategic priorities.
- Capable of helping customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems.
- Demonstrated ability to lead large multidisciplinary teams (greater than 10 people). Aligns team towards program goals and builds trust within the team.
- Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Systems Engineering.
- Contributes to advancing State of the Art (SOA) solutions and techniques in their field
- Able to analyze Draper strategy and work with management to build capability in key areas to help sustain business growth.
- Identifies risks common among multiple programs/technology areas/etc. and develops and executes mitigation strategies for them.
- Works to improve operations at the enterprise level. Identifies areas for improvement within the organization and uses positive collaboration practices to achieve change.
- Actively mentors and seeks opportunities to build depth for their area of expertise. Recognizes strengths and weaknesses in others and gives thoughtful, constructive feedback.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
- Highly-organized, capable of approaching problems with a system-level perspective.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Practical experience with simulation-based performance analysis.
- Practical experience with the systems engineering process.
- Roles may require proficiency with modeling and simulation, computer language coding, descriptive modeling (e.g. SysML), STPA, and/or other engineering analysis tools
- Knowledge of GN&C, avionics architectures, fault tolerance, cyber/security, comms/encryption, threat modeling or other technologies may be required as defined in the summary.
Education
Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field. Masters degree or higher preferred.
Experience
10-15+ years experience as systems engineer or related role.
Additional Job Description:
A successful candidate will be motivated to build deeper expertise in both the core mission domains and underlying microsystems technology. This position will provide exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies (including inertial sensors, imagers, precision electronics, and advanced algorithms) as well as provide growth opportunities in the development of capabilities to address challenges in national security. Additionally, a successful candidate will be able to seamlessly join project teams that collaborate by sharing thoughts and opinions of individuals from a diverse set of experience and viewpoints in order to create the best possible technical solution.
- Experience maintaining traceability between requirements and system architecture & design work products
-
Technical depth in fields relevant to electronics development, embedded systems, embedded software, or packaging miniaturization such as:
- Possess a broad understanding of microprocessors, Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and real-time software & firmware needed to enable solutions.
- Have experience with serial digital data interfaces (e.g. SPI, RS422, Ethernet) used to interconnect distributed and modular avionics.
- Understand power electronics, A/D, D/A, clock and timing electronics that support and interface with the digital electronics.
- Be able to work with thermal analysis and reliability experts in developing solutions.
- Expertise in full life-cycle systems engineering (architecture, design, development, integration, approval, and deployment) of security technologies and components within cyber-physical systems and systems-of-systems
- Strong presentation skills and the ability to articulate complex technical ideas to both internal and external stakeholders
- Strong set of interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrated experience of fostering a culture of inclusion in the workplace
- Experience in the development of System Security documentation per Government requirements
- Experience planning and leading Systems Engineering Technical Reviews
- Experience working with modern data bus / electrical interfaces for flight/space systems
- Experience in writing innovative R&D proposals to commercial and government sponsors
- An understanding of the fundamentals of cryptographic key management, public key infrastructure, and NSA’s Key Management Infrastructure, and the applications of cryptology
- Be familiar with the unique aspects of space avionics: environmental testing (MIL-STD-810), radiation hardening, and EMI/EMC considerations (MIL-STD-461).
Applicants selected for this opportunity will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
Secret Clearance is preferred.
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:
CambridgeJob Location - State:
MassachusettsJob Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$100,000.00 - $275,000.00Our 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 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.
Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity 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, 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.
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:
The Embedded Microsystems and Sensors Group at Draper is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to develop and manage requirements, architecture, interface documentation, and system specifications for systems in mission domains such as: embedded secure communications, advanced electronics miniaturization, edge processing and computing, trustworthy secure platforms, and autonomous air/sea vehicles.This role will involve working across a multi-disciplinary team (including external and internal stakeholders) innovating new microelectronics system solutions over the full system development lifecycle.
The group has multidisciplinary proficiencies in secure systems architecture, hardware security and resilience, software security and resilience, system validation and accreditation, sensor development and validation, and cryptography.
Job Description:
- Independently drive solutions to complex, multidisciplinary problems with a deep understanding of a customer's strategic priorities.
- Capable of helping customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems.
- Demonstrated ability to lead large multidisciplinary teams (greater than 10 people). Aligns team towards program goals and builds trust within the team.
- Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Systems Engineering.
- Contributes to advancing State of the Art (SOA) solutions and techniques in their field
- Able to analyze Draper strategy and work with management to build capability in key areas to help sustain business growth.
- Identifies risks common among multiple programs/technology areas/etc. and develops and executes mitigation strategies for them.
- Works to improve operations at the enterprise level. Identifies areas for improvement within the organization and uses positive collaboration practices to achieve change.
- Actively mentors and seeks opportunities to build depth for their area of expertise. Recognizes strengths and weaknesses in others and gives thoughtful, constructive feedback.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
- Highly-organized, capable of approaching problems with a system-level perspective.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Practical experience with simulation-based performance analysis.
- Practical experience with the systems engineering process.
- Roles may require proficiency with modeling and simulation, computer language coding, descriptive modeling (e.g. SysML), STPA, and/or other engineering analysis tools
- Knowledge of GN&C, avionics architectures, fault tolerance, cyber/security, comms/encryption, threat modeling or other technologies may be required as defined in the summary.
Education
Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field. Masters degree or higher preferred.
Experience
10-15+ years experience as systems engineer or related role.
Additional Job Description:
A successful candidate will be motivated to build deeper expertise in both the core mission domains and underlying microsystems technology. This position will provide exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies (including inertial sensors, imagers, precision electronics, and advanced algorithms) as well as provide growth opportunities in the development of capabilities to address challenges in national security. Additionally, a successful candidate will be able to seamlessly join project teams that collaborate by sharing thoughts and opinions of individuals from a diverse set of experience and viewpoints in order to create the best possible technical solution.
- Experience maintaining traceability between requirements and system architecture & design work products
-
Technical depth in fields relevant to electronics development, embedded systems, embedded software, or packaging miniaturization such as:
- Possess a broad understanding of microprocessors, Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and real-time software & firmware needed to enable solutions.
- Have experience with serial digital data interfaces (e.g. SPI, RS422, Ethernet) used to interconnect distributed and modular avionics.
- Understand power electronics, A/D, D/A, clock and timing electronics that support and interface with the digital electronics.
- Be able to work with thermal analysis and reliability experts in developing solutions.
- Expertise in full life-cycle systems engineering (architecture, design, development, integration, approval, and deployment) of security technologies and components within cyber-physical systems and systems-of-systems
- Strong presentation skills and the ability to articulate complex technical ideas to both internal and external stakeholders
- Strong set of interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrated experience of fostering a culture of inclusion in the workplace
- Experience in the development of System Security documentation per Government requirements
- Experience planning and leading Systems Engineering Technical Reviews
- Experience working with modern data bus / electrical interfaces for flight/space systems
- Experience in writing innovative R&D proposals to commercial and government sponsors
- An understanding of the fundamentals of cryptographic key management, public key infrastructure, and NSA’s Key Management Infrastructure, and the applications of cryptology
- Be familiar with the unique aspects of space avionics: environmental testing (MIL-STD-810), radiation hardening, and EMI/EMC considerations (MIL-STD-461).
Applicants selected for this opportunity will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
Secret Clearance is preferred.
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:
CambridgeJob Location - State:
MassachusettsJob Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$100,000.00 - $275,000.00Our 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 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.
Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity 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, 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.
See All 21 Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts
Find roles in Massachusetts that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs by City in Massachusetts
Where Massachusetts roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Embedded Systems Engineer Job Market in Massachusetts
A snapshot from current Massachusetts openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
- Science & Research
What Massachusetts Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in embedded systems engineer jobs across Massachusetts.
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a closely related field
- Proficiency in C or C++ for bare-metal and RTOS-based embedded development
- Experience with hardware-software integration including schematics, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers
- Familiarity with communication protocols such as SPI, I2C, UART, CAN, or Ethernet
- Active or eligible U.S. security clearance preferred by many Massachusetts defense employers
- Experience with safety or regulatory standards such as IEC 62443, FDA 510k, or DO-178C
Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a embedded systems engineer in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts does not require a state-issued license to work as an embedded systems engineer. Most employers expect a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science from an accredited institution. Candidates targeting defense or aerospace roles along the Route 128 corridor often pursue a Professional Engineer registration through the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, though it is not universally required. Certifications in real-time systems, FPGA design, or functional safety strengthen applications considerably.
How much do embedded systems engineers make in Massachusetts?
Embedded systems engineers in Massachusetts earn a median of about $167,600 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $118,490 for the lowest 10% to over $258,880 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire embedded systems engineers in Massachusetts?
Employers hiring embedded systems engineers in Massachusetts right now include MIT Lincoln Laboratory, STR, and Draper, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Massachusetts's deep concentration of defense primes, medical device companies, and semiconductor firms means openings appear consistently across a wide range of industries and team sizes.
Which Massachusetts cities have the most embedded systems engineer jobs?
Woburn, Boston, and Cambridge lead Massachusetts for embedded systems engineer openings. Greater Boston anchors demand through its dense cluster of defense contractors, medical device manufacturers, and university-affiliated research labs, while suburban Route 128 communities such as Waltham and Woburn host major corporate campuses for semiconductor and robotics companies that drive hiring outside the city core.
Are there remote embedded systems engineer jobs in Massachusetts?
Yes, but they're rare. Embedded systems engineering is fundamentally hands-on work requiring access to hardware prototypes, lab equipment, and test environments, which limits full remote roles. About 0% of embedded systems engineer openings tied to Massachusetts are remote or hybrid as of September 2026. The portions of the role most likely to accommodate remote arrangements are firmware code review, simulation, documentation, and software-only debugging tasks.
How can I get hired as a embedded systems engineer in Massachusetts with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is an internship or co-op secured through one of Massachusetts's major research universities, since employers like Raytheon Technologies, Analog Devices, and Boston Scientific run structured programs that convert student placements into full-time offers. Candidates without internship experience should target associate or junior embedded engineer roles at smaller defense subcontractors along Route 128, where hands-on exposure is prioritized over credentials. A portfolio of personal microcontroller or FPGA projects and familiarity with RTOS concepts meaningfully strengthens applications for these roles.
Where can I find and apply to embedded systems engineer jobs in Massachusetts?
You can find and apply to embedded systems engineer jobs in Massachusetts on Migrate Mate, which lists current Massachusetts openings across defense, medical devices, robotics, and semiconductor industries. Find roles that match your background and experience level and apply directly.
See All 21 Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts
Find roles in Massachusetts that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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