Electronics for Contested Space Co-Op (Fall 2026) - Group 09-94

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

Job summary

MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA, is seeking a CO-OP Student for IT and Systems Administrator responsibilities across Windows, Unix/Linux, and network configurations. The role emphasizes installing OSes, licensing, and security in line with government and Laboratory policies.

The position requires current enrollment in a Computer Science/Engineering/IT degree with 3.3+ GPA, 2+ years of undergrad study, and DoD 8570.1-M familiarity. Earned co-op eligibility is mandatory.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Computer Science/Computer Engineering/Networking/IT Degree program with a GPA of 3.3 or higher
• Completed at least 2 years of undergraduate study (or equivalent) prior to employment
• Knowledgeable of various operating systems: Windows, Windows Server, Unix/Linux, macOS
• Basic understanding of, and ability to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and networking challenges
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office application software
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
• Must be currently enrolled at a college or university that offers a formal co-op program and be eligible to participate in that program. Students whose schools do not offer a co-op program are not eligible for this position.

Responsibilities

• Assist personnel with computer and network problems and tasks
• Install Operating Systems and troubleshoot Windows 11, Windows Server, and Linux (Red Hat and Ubuntu)
• Configure and maintain network infrastructure within the LAN between Windows and Unix/Linux
• Renew software licenses to ensure continuity of service
• Implement and test network and computer system configurations and upgrades
• Implement security and measures in accordance with government and Laboratory policies
• Research and recommend commercial hardware and software products to meet requirements
• Assist with helping move and set up IT equipment

Skills

Windows OS

Linux/Unix

Networking basics

Office apps

Education

Undergraduate CS/CE/IT degree

GPA 3.3+

Tools

BitLocker

LUKS

OS Imaging

Kickstart

MDT

Job description

Date: Aug 14, 2026

Location: Lexington, MA, US

Company: MIT Lincoln Laboratory

The Electronics for Contested Space Group develops RF and advanced electronic systems for space control missions and technology in the protection of our Nation's most important space capabilities. This work includes the design and development of state-of-the-art satellites and satellite payloads, novel concepts for resilient space architectures, and the Nation's most sensitive radars, optics, and passive RF systems. Our group also collaborates across the Laboratory to provide engineering rigor and experience to some of the most critical Laboratory programs. Examples of recent projects include the prototyping of electronic systems and effects, hardware-in-the-loop testing of tactically-relevant payloads with surrogate threat systems, and RF subsystem development for satellites.

Position Description

Group 94, Electronics for Contested Space, is seeking a CO-OP Student with interest in Information Technology (IT) and Systems Administrator responsibilities. This position will have opportunities to develop skills across multiple Operating System platforms including Windows and Unix.

• Assist personnel with computer and network problems and tasks
• Install Operating Systems and troubleshoot Windows 11, Windows Server, and Linux (Red Hat and Ubuntu)
• Configure and maintain network infrastructure within the LAN between Windows and Unix/Linux
• Renew software licenses to ensure continuity of service
• Implement and test network and computer system confi gurations and upgrades
• Implement security and measures in accordance with government and Laboratory policies
• Research and recommend commercial hardware and software products to meet requirements
• Assist with helping move and set up IT equipment

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Computer Science/Computer Engineering/Networking/IT Degree program with a GPA of 3.3 or higher
• Completed at least 2 years of undergraduate study (or equivalent) prior to employment
• Knowledgeable of various operating systems: Windows, Windows Server, Unix/Linux, macOS
• Basic understanding of, and ability to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and networking challenges
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office application software
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills

• Must be currently enrolled at a college or university that offers a formal co-op program and be eligible to participate in that program. Students whose schools do not offer a co-op program are not eligible for this position.

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with desktop level hardware and software applications like Office, Adobe, OS Imaging (i.e. kickstart or Microsoft Deployment Toolkit), BitLocker,and LUKS.
• Working knowledge of scripting languages such as bash, Perl or python
• Experience with security plans, procedures, and compliance with DoD Mandate 8570.1-M
• Work experience in mission critical environments

Compensation

Compensation for Technical Co-Op: $25 - $32 per hour (based on year in school)

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Top 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.

Requisition ID:42231

Nearest Major Market: Boston

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