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Draper Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Program Manager - Space Systems

Reston, VA · On-site

$120K - $121K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Program Manager 2

Reston, VA · On-site

$100K - $275K/yr

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 ...

Summary: The Contested Environment System Analysis group is seeking a Senior-level Radiation Analysis Engineer to support cross-disciplinary teams to solve complex system architecture, requirements ...

Summary: The Contested Environment System Analysis group is seeking a Senior-level Radiation Analysis Engineer to support cross-disciplinary teams to solve complex system architecture, requirements ...

Showing results 21-40

Draper information

What is a draper?

A draper usually works on fashion designs or costumes for theater and films. Typically, a draper works with the sketches of a fashion or costume designer, creating the outfits by draping the clothing over a form. You then oversee the necessary cutting and sewing. This type of fitting is an alternative to using measurements and patterns, and allows the designer to see the fashion piece before final construction. In broader terms, the duties of a draper are to act as the designer’s representative during tailoring and assist in the production of clothing/costumes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a draper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Draper, you need strong skills in fabric measurement, cutting, garment fitting, and a good understanding of textiles, often supported by vocational training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with pattern-making tools, sewing machines, and related software like CAD systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective communication with clients and team members are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure the precise creation of garments, efficient workflow, and high customer satisfaction in the tailoring and fashion industry.

What are some common challenges faced by drapers when working on complex garment designs?

Drapers often encounter challenges when translating intricate design concepts into wearable garments, especially with unconventional fabrics or avant-garde silhouettes. Balancing the designer's vision with the technical limitations of fabric drape, structure, and movement requires advanced problem-solving skills. Additionally, collaborating closely with patternmakers and tailors to ensure the final piece maintains both aesthetic appeal and functionality is a critical aspect of the role. Adaptability and strong communication are key to overcoming these hurdles and delivering high-quality results.

What is the difference between Draper vs Machinist?

AspectDraperMachinist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeship often preferredHigh school diploma; technical training or apprenticeship typically required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or industrial settings, often involving assembly or fabricatingMachine shops, manufacturing plants, working with lathes, mills, and other precision tools
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, aerospace, and industrial sectorsCommon in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and industrial sectors

Both Drapers and Machinists work in manufacturing environments, often requiring technical training or apprenticeships. While Drapers may focus on fabricating and assembling textiles or related materials, Machinists specialize in operating machine tools to produce precise metal parts. Their roles overlap in manufacturing industries, but their specific skills and tools differ significantly.

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Draper jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Draper job openings:

Infographic showing various Draper job openings in Reston, VA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Program Manager - Space Systems

Reston, VA • On-site

$120K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

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:

Responsible for overseeing the execution of the full lifecycle of medium to large sized projects/program(s) of considerable complexity.

Job Description:

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Own overall program execution, to include meeting cost, schedule, technical performance targets and exceeding customer expectations for medium to large sized projects/program(s) of considerable complexity.
  • Establish project/program performance measurement baseline.
  • Develop, implement and update resource allocation plans. Work with functional organizations to effectively recruit, retain and develop key talent for the business.
  • Manage and control all phases of projects/programs from inception through completion, ensuring cost, schedule, and technical performance.
  • Act as primary customer contact for program activities, managing project/program teams, and leading review sessions to ensure all work scope and technical requirements are met.
  • Work closely with the Supply Chain organization in management of suppliers and monitor ongoing performance.
  • Identify, assess and apply appropriate actions for project/program opportunities, risks, and issues in terms of cost, schedule, technical elements and deliverables.
  • Establish strong customer partnerships and balance ongoing needs and expectations against plans. Develop new business or expand existing products/technologies with customers.
  • Provide leadership oversight for the team creating an open, positive, inclusive environment to maintain high team morale.
  • Participate in contract negotiations, reporting, deliverables and changes.
  • Deploy appropriate quality control and quality assurance processes and ensure adherence to the Quality Management System and customer requirements.
  • Coordinate win strategy, competitive captures, and compliant proposals to support current and future growth of the business portfolio.
  • Manage all phases of the business cycle in accordance with the company's policies and processes.
  • Ensure effective oral and written communications to internal and external stakeholders as well as impactful presentations.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Advanced knowledge of project/program management tools and processes such as Earned Value Management (EVMS), Integrated Master plan (IMP)/Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) and/or Opportunity/Risk/Issue Management.
  • Experience working government projects/programs with direct customer interfaces, both internal and external.
  • Able to work with functional organizations to achieve project/program execution and business goals.
  • Able to implement continuous improvement across projects/programs and balance priorities in a dynamic, matrixed environment.
  • Ability to travel on an as needed basis.
  • Ability to quickly learn new technologies and/or new applications.
  • Experience executing programs through all product lifecycles.
  • Ability to be persuasive and a strong relationship builder.
  • Possess excellent communications, presentation and networking skills.
  • Knowledge and proven track record of successful business interaction.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree (major in engineering, computer science, business, or related technical field preferred)

Experience:

  • 7 years professional experience in project/program management in commercial or defense industry required

Additional Job Description:

  • Strong understanding of DoW and/or IC customers, including knowledge of customer issues, market opportunities, and contracting procedures.
  • Manage capture campaigns across all phases of the business winning process, including building customer relationships, shaping opportunities, resource and budget allocation, proposal execution, and negotiation/definitization through award.
  • Understand the technical solutions being developed of sufficient depth to manage project/program/capture execution and assess technical and programmatic risks.
  • May require travel up to 25% on an as needed basis.

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Current in scope Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility is required. The ability to obtain or recent CI Poly required.

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

$100,000.00 - $275,000.00

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 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.