The posting
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:
About the Group The Production Design, Verification & Validation group (GAD4) supports a growing portfolio of laboratory level hardware in the loop testing. Our work increasingly depends on single , two , and three axis motion control tables for precision positioning, vibration isolation, and dynamic testing of guidance system hardware. To keep pace with this expanding workload we need a senior level technician who can operate, maintain, and rapidly troubleshoot these tables while also providing broader environmental lab support. Primary Mission
• Serve as the go to expert for all multi axis table platforms (e.g., Unholtz Dickie Apex, ACUTRONIC, and any custom built tables) across the Cambridge facility.
• Ensure that tables are ready, calibrated, and performing to spec for every test cycle, supporting both scheduled and unscheduled activities. ________________________________________ Position Responsibilities
Core Table Centric Duties
• Operate single , two , and three axis tables according to test procedures, loading/unloading payloads, configuring motion profiles, and executing automated runs with minimal supervision.
• Perform preventive maintenance on table drive electronics, linear encoders, bearings, motor couplings, and pneumatic/hydraulic subsystems; log all service actions in the equipment CMMS.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot table faults (e.g., axis jitter, encoder errors, motor overheating, drive communication loss) using built in diagnostics, oscilloscope/logic analyzer data, and vendor specific software tools.
• Calibrate and verify table positioning accuracy, repeatability, and dynamic response (frequency response, backlash, travel limits) before each test campaign.
• Maintain and update SOPs for table operation, safety interlocks, and change over procedures; train junior staff on correct usage. General Lab Support (unchanged but re ordered)
• Follow SOPs for handling and testing inertial equipment throughout the lab.
• Support shipping, receiving, tracking, and inspection of guidance systems in Cambridge; ensure proper logistics documentation.
• Act as data courier between Bedford and Cambridge, and perform data acquisition with portable vibration controllers, DAQ systems, and digital recorders.
• Maintain test logs, record data during test cell operations, and ensure data integrity.
• Escort Draper personnel and contractors as required, maintaining lab organization and cleanliness.
• Assist in repair of mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical/electronic test equipment (including shakers, thermal/vacuum chambers, centrifuges, high speed cameras, magnetic field rigs, etc.).
Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
• Performs skilled assembly work; build, assemble, modify and/or repair prototypes. • Provides support to engineers on technical projects and/or product; collect, maintain, organize, compile, and manipulate technical data per guidelines. • Prepares engineering documentation, reports, and drawings (sketches/flow charts/diagrams/schematics, etc.). • Performs mathematical calculations per engineering specifications. • Recommend alternative solutions to problems and obstacles. • May set up and conduct tests and record data to assist with engineering analysis. • With adequate training, may operate, clean, maintain, and/or calibrate assembly equipment requiring highly skilled and specialized knowledge. • Documents work consistent with work unit policy in handwritten form or using common computer-based software • May mentor or train more junior technicians. • May perform other duties as assigned specific to a particular engineering area.
Skills/Abilities • Knowledge of clean room practices and protocols. • Knowledge of small scale production environment. • Proficiency with MS Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, Outlook.
Education
- A minimum Associates Degree in engineering or science program, A Bachelor's Degree is strongly preferred.
In Lieu required college degree, a minimum of two years of technical schooling may be satisfied through one of the following.
- High school diploma or its equivalents, plus two years of technical schooling related to engineering or science OR
- Completion of Military Technical School
Experience
- When education requirement is met, requires a minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience.
- When education requirements are not met, requires a minimum of 10 years' of relevant experience.
Additional Job Description:
Knowledge, Skills, & Ability Requirements
Category
Required / Preferred
Education / Experience
• Associate‑degree (or higher) in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering Technology or equivalent experience. • 5+ years experience directly operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting multi‑axis motion‑control tables (commercial or government labs).
Security Clearance
Minimum Secret (must be maintained).
Technical Aptitudes
• Proven ability to configure, program, and operate Unholtz‑Dickie Apex and Acutronic controllers (or comparable systems). • Strong mechanical aptitude: torque‑wrench use, alignment tools, precision hand‑tools. • Hands‑on experience with linear encoders, brushless DC/servo drives, pneumatic & hydraulic actuation, and motion‑control safety interlocks.
Diagnostic Skills
• Ability to read and interpret error logs, encoder signals, and drive diagnostics. • Familiarity with oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, and vibration‑analysis software for root‑cause analysis.
Documentation & Software
• Accurate handwritten and electronic documentation (lab notebooks, CMMS entries, Microsoft Office, and simple scripting for data‑reduction).
Testing Theory
• Knowledge of vibration, shock, acoustic, pressure, linear/angular acceleration, and thermal theory is a strong plus.
Certifications
• Facility Casualty Certified • Crane Certified (for payload handling) • ESD Certified
Interpersonal
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment; communicate clearly with engineers, contractors, and safety personnel. • Self‑starter who can complete tasks on schedule with minimal supervision.
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
$51.41 - $51.41
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 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 [email protected].
