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Navigation Engineer Jobs in Cambridge, MA (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Navigation Algorithm Engineer develops software for cutting-edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Senior ...

The Senior Navigation and Tracking Engineer develops software for cutting-edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Senior ...

The Senior Navigation and Tracking Engineer develops software for cutting-edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Senior ...

Senior Navigation Algorithm Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site +1

$75K - $245K/yr

The Senior Navigation Algorithm Engineer develops software for cutting-edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Senior ...

Senior Navigation Analysis Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site +1

$82K - $220K/yr

Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that ... This position seeks candidates with extensive experience with inertial sensors, navigation ...

Senior Software Engineer - Navigation

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

As a Senior Software Engineer in the Navigation R&D team, you will lead development of next generation surgical navigation and planning systems. You'll collaborate closely with a cross-functional ...

Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that ... This position seeks candidates with extensive experience with inertial sensors, navigation ...

Navigation Analyst

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or equivalent. Client is looking for contractors familiar with inertial sensors, navigation, estimation, and system accuracy analysis who have used ...

Learn more at We are recruiting for Senior Software Engineer in Navigation R&D team. The role will be in Boston, MA or Warsaw, IN Job Responsibilities: Architect major software features/enhancements ...

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Showing results 1-20

Navigation Engineer information

See Cambridge, MA salary details

$39.2K

$127K

$180.9K

How much do navigation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for navigation engineer in Cambridge, MA is $127,026.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,746.00 and $159,925.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a navigation engineer?

To excel as a Navigation Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, a background in engineering or computer science, and expertise in navigation algorithms and sensor integration. Experience with tools such as MATLAB, GNSS software suites, inertial navigation systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or relevant industry credentials are valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork and communication are important soft skills in this field. These qualifications are crucial for developing accurate, reliable navigation solutions and collaborating efficiently on multidisciplinary projects.

What are common challenges faced by navigation engineers in their daily work?

Navigation Engineers often face the challenge of ensuring precise positioning and navigation under varying environmental conditions, such as urban canyons or signal interference areas. They must troubleshoot and optimize complex sensor fusion algorithms to maintain system accuracy and reliability. This role typically requires close collaboration with software developers, hardware engineers, and project managers to implement robust solutions and quickly address technical issues as they arise. Staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in navigation technology is also key to meeting the evolving needs of clients or industries.

What is a navigation engineer?

A Navigation Engineer designs, develops, and maintains navigation systems for aerospace, marine, automotive, or robotic applications. They work with technologies like GPS, inertial navigation, and sensor fusion to ensure precise positioning and movement. Their role involves software development, algorithm design, and troubleshooting to improve navigation accuracy and reliability. These engineers often collaborate with other specialists in aerospace, robotics, or transportation industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Navigation Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA? The most popular types of Navigation Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Navigation Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA? For Navigation Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Navigation Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Navigation Engineer jobs in Cambridge, MA are:
Infographic showing various Navigation Engineer job openings in Cambridge, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $127,026 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Space and Strategic Navigation Engineer

Draper

Cambridge, MA โ€ข On-site

$75K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 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:

The Space and Strategic Navigation Engineer 2 develops software for cutting-edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Navigation Algorithms Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced navigation algorithms and software for systems able to operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
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.
Contributes content for technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
Participates in tag-ups and informal meetings with group leads and colleagues.
Derives task-level or component-level requirements from system requirements.
Independently contributes high quality content for technical reports and presentations which shows an understanding of their task and an awareness of the intended audience.
Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
Independently contributes high quality content for technical reports and presentations which shows an understanding of their task and an awareness of the intended audience.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
Proficient in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ or other related tools.
Proficient in basic software development standards.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Foundational knowledge of autonomy, guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) technology.
Knowledge of real-time software development tools.
Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real-time algorithms and software.
Strong background in control systems theory.
Contributes content for technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
Written and verbal communication is clear and concise.
Participates in tag-ups and informal meetings with group leads and colleagues.
Derives task-level or component-level requirements from system requirements.
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
3-5 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position 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:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$75,000.00 - $245,000.00

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.