Advanced Sensors and Techniques Co-Op (Spring 2027) - Group 09-02

MIT Lincoln Laboratory; Lexington (MA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Part time

Job summary

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is offering an Advanced Sensors and Techniques Co‑Op for Spring 2027 in Lexington, MA. You will help design, prototype, test, and integrate advanced radar systems for space surveillance, collaborating with scientists and engineers across disciplines.

The role emphasizes rapid prototyping, strong communication, and the potential to travel for test exercises at remote field sites. Enrollment in a technical program with 2+ years completed is required.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in an accredited technical program (EE/Physics/CE/Aerospace).
• Completed at least 2 years of undergraduate study prior to employment.
• Interest or experience in radar, RF systems, signal processing or related fields.

Responsibilities

• Assist design, development, and integration of next‑gen radar systems for space surveillance.
• Work in multi‑disciplinary teams of scientists and engineers.
• Communicate effectively in oral and written forms; rapid prototyping mindset.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Programming

Education

Undergraduate student (2+ years completed)

Technical field focus (EE/Physics/CE/Aerospace)

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Vector Network Analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Job description

Advanced Sensors and Techniques Co-Op (Spring 2027) - Group 09-02

The nation’s Satellites perform important civil, scientific, and national defense functions such as navigation, communications, weather forecasting, astronomical observations, and surveillance.As space becomes increasingly congested and contested, it is critical to maintain awareness of objects around the Earth to ensure the safe and effective operation of U.S. satellites.The Advanced Sensors and Techniques Group prototypes, develops and tests some of the world’s most advanced electro-optical and radio frequency (RF) space surveillance sensors. We have access to space surveillance sensors at our main campus in Lexington, MA, and at the Lincoln Space Surveillance Complex in Westford, MA, the Experimental Test Site in Socorro, NM, and the Reagan Test Site on Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands.

Our team explores novel concepts, develops them into prototypes, and turns those prototypes into impactful operational capabilities.Recent examples include:

• Automated high-resolution radar image processing algorithm development
• Novel artificial intelligence-based target characterization algorithm development
• Advanced radar signal processing algorithm development
• Implementation of transmitter and receiver upgrades for the world’s most sensitive radars
• Integration and operation of a state-of-the-art telescope for space domain awareness
• Demonstration of high-precision multi-sensor data fusion
• Design and demonstration of long-baseline multistatic radars

Job Description

The Advanced Sensors and Techniques Group is seeking a Co-Op student to help design, develop, test, and integrate the next generation of advanced radar systems for space surveillance. The successful candidate will work in multi-disciplinary teams of scientists and engineers to prototype and demonstrate innovative technologies leveraging world-class sensors. Assignments will require the candidate to work independently and in a team environment. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for this role. We are seeking highly motivated, exceptionally bright, and creative individuals who can think broadly, analyze complex problems, implement solutions in a rapid prototyping environment, and who wish to contribute to the development of cutting‑edge technology in support of national security.

Occasional travel to support test exercises at remote field sites may be required.

Requirements

• Current enrollment in an accredited Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or other relevant technical field
  • Completed at least 2 years of undergraduate study (or equivalent) prior to employment
• Academic interest or direct experience with one or more of the following:
  • Remote sensing (radar / EO) or other RF systems (communications, electronic warfare, etc.)
  • Antenna, RF, and microwave component integration and testing
  • Analog / digital circuit design, PCB prototyping and testing
  • Signal processing and data analysis
  • Laboratory instrumentation (oscilloscopes, vector network analyzers, power supplies, etc.)
  • Orbital mechanics and orbit determination techniques
• Demonstrated ability to:
  • Work in a multidisciplinary team environment and maintain strong working relationships
  • Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms
• Proficiency with scientific programming languages (MATLAB, Python, or similar)

Compensation Data

Hourly pay rates below are effective January 2026 – December 2026 and will be reviewed again for Summer 2027. Rates are based on the highest academic year or degree completed before the internship start date.

Technical Co-op: $25 - $32

Administratrive Co-op: $23 - $27

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.