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Sensor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Solid-State Sensor Engineer in the instruments group, you will play a critical role in the development of inertial instruments for cutting-edge guidance applications. You will work ...

... sensor fusion. • Collaborate with AI/ML teams to develop and deploy deep learning models for RADAR-based perception tasks. • Guide and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers, fostering ...

... and sensor fusion. Collaborate with AI/ML teams to develop and deploy deep learning models for RADAR-based perception tasks. Guide and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers, fostering ...

... and sensor fusion. Collaborate with AI/ML teams to develop and deploy deep learning models for RADAR-based perception tasks. Guide and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers, fostering ...

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Sensor Engineer information

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$44K

$106.4K

$173.5K

How much do sensor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for sensor engineer in the United States is $106,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Sensor Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, signal processing, and sensor technologies, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, data acquisition systems, programming languages like C/C++, and relevant certifications such as Certified Measurement and Control Technician are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this field. These skills are crucial for designing reliable sensor systems, troubleshooting complex issues, and ensuring seamless integration into larger engineering projects.

What are some common challenges Sensor Engineers face when integrating new sensor technologies into existing systems?

Sensor Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new sensors and legacy hardware or software, managing data integrity amidst increased data streams, and addressing calibration or environmental factors that may impact sensor accuracy. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including software developers and hardware engineers, is frequently required to troubleshoot integration issues and optimize system performance. Staying updated with rapidly evolving sensor technologies and industry standards is also essential for successful implementation.

What are Sensor Engineers?

Sensor Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain sensors and sensor systems used to detect and measure physical properties such as temperature, pressure, motion, or chemical composition. They work in various industries including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and electronics to ensure sensors function accurately and reliably. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, integrating sensors with electronic systems, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing sensor performance for specific applications.

What is the role of a sensor engineer?

A sensor engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains sensors used in various electronic and mechanical systems. They work with materials, circuitry, and software to ensure sensors accurately detect physical phenomena such as temperature, pressure, or motion, often using tools like CAD software and programming languages. Their role is essential in industries like automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and consumer electronics.

What is the difference between Sensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer?

AspectSensor EngineerElectronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related fields; certifications varyBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related fields; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsDesign firms, manufacturing plants, R&D departments
Industry UsageDeveloping and testing sensors for various applicationsDesigning electronic systems, circuit boards, and devices
Common Search/ComparisonSensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer

Sensor Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing sensors used in various industries, while Electronics Engineers work on designing electronic circuits and systems. Both roles require a background in electrical engineering and often collaborate in product development, but Sensor Engineers specialize in sensor technology specifically.

More about Sensor Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Sensor Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Sensor Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Sensor Engineer jobs? The top employers for Sensor Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Sensor Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Sensor Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sensor Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,386 per year, or $51.1 per hour.
Senior Solid-State Sensor Engineer

Senior Solid-State Sensor Engineer

Draper

Cambridge, MA

$82.30K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 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:

As a Senior Solid-State Sensor Engineer in the instruments group, you will play a critical role in the development of inertial instruments for cutting-edge guidance applications. You will work closely with a team of engineers and physicists to build next-generation gyroscope, accelerometer and guidance-aiding sensor prototypes, characterize their performance, develop production roll-out and ultimately deliver production hardened sensors meeting some of the world's most stringent requirements.
YOU MIGHT BE EXCITED ABOUT THIS ROLE IF...
You're someone who enjoys working at the intersection of physics and real-world application, when it comes to designing high-precision sensor systems. You're looking for a role where you can build, prototype, and bring complex systems to life alongside other experts.
Enjoy designing and developing high-precision sensors or systems
Have experience (or strong interest) in MEMS, solid-state physics, or control systems
Like owning or contributing to system architecture and instrument development
Thrive in hands-on environments-prototyping, testing, iterating
Want to collaborate with SMEs to solve complex, real-world problems

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction to design and develop precision instruments.
Actively mentor less experienced Hardware Instrument engineers.
Designs experiments, and experimental precision instruments to prove which design concepts are viable and optimal.
Collaborates with other engineers to design and develop prototype and production hardware to meet the application needs.
Collaborates with other groups to integrate precision instruments into larger systems, delivering on performance metrics.
Develops initial processes for the fabrication of custom designed instruments.
Drafts and presents formal technical documents, reports, and testing results to manager for approval.
Provides training related to devices to employees, sub-contractors and/or customers.
Performs independent research when needed for solving problems.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Understanding of the design, development, and application of a wide variety of instruments.
Understanding of the processes used in the fabrication of precision instrument hardware.
Thorough understanding of applied math and physics.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficient with general modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB, computer-aided design (CAD) software, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, and/or other design & analysis tools relevant to your discipline.
Education
Requires a bachelors degree in Mechanical, Applied Physics, Electrical or Computer Engineering required; Masters or PhD degree preferred.
Experience
Requires 5-10 years of experience in Hardware Instrument Engineering or related.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a 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

$82,300.00 - $220,000.00

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.