Free-Space Optics R&D Engineer — Hands-On Impact

MIT Lincoln Laboratory; Lexington (MA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition assistance

MIT resources and professional dev.

Pension plan

401K match

Paid leave and education programs

Job summary

MIT Lincoln Laboratory seeks a recent STEM graduate to contribute to designing and testing free-space laser communication systems in Lexington, MA. You will run hands-on experiments, model results, and help take concepts from theory to hardware on an optical bench.

The role emphasizes independent experimentation, collaboration with a small team, and potential national security impact. Degree in Physics, EE, Optics/Photonics, CS, or related field is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in a STEM field (completed or in progress, graduating 2026/2027).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to work in a laboratory environment with optical/electronic hardware.
• US citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design and characterize optical, RF, or software subsystems for next-generation free-space laser communication terminals.
• Run experiments, troubleshoot issues, and iterate on solutions.
• Perform modeling and analysis to inform technology investments and assess lab results.
• Collaborate closely with a small, tight-knit technical team.
• Apply theoretical fundamentals to real hardware on an optical bench.

Skills

Analytical skills

Laboratory experience

US citizenship

Security clearance eligibility

Education

STEM degree

Job description

MIT Lincoln Laboratory seeks a recent STEM graduate to contribute to designing and testing free-space laser communication systems in Lexington, MA. You will run hands-on experiments, model results, and help take concepts from theory to hardware on an optical bench.

The role emphasizes independent experimentation, collaboration with a small team, and potential national security impact. Degree in Physics, EE, Optics/Photonics, CS, or related field is preferred.