Space Systems Researcher

The Space Systems Analysis and Test Group aims to solve our nation's most demanding space-related security challenges backed by validated analysis, prototyping, and field demonstrations.  We work with senior leaders in the US Space Force, Air Force, and Intelligence Community to provide unbiased analysis and innovative solutions that directly shape US national defense strategy. 

Our technical staff are skilled scientists and engineers with deep and broad space systems experience, eager to be on the leading edge of technology that will chart our nation's future in space.  All staff grasp new technologies, dissect complex problems, and communicate solutions to a spectrum of audiences.

Associate staff members may fill different roles for programs and are encouraged to diversify their expertise while in the group. Some examples of current Associate Staff areas of expertise include:

• Computational Physics – Develop modeling software for in-house astrodynamics toolkits. Topics include satellite propagation, guidance laws, sensors & observations, state estimation, tracking, etc.
• Hardware Prototyping – Design and produce developmental hardware systems and sensors.  Design and conduct measurement campaigns using prototypes in support of analysis studies.
• Signal Processing – Design tools and pipelines to process observational data from optical, radar, and other instruments. Analyze collected data and compare to theoretical models.

Candidates are not expected to have previous experience in all of these areas, but should have the technical background sufficient to learn them. A successful candidate will have a strong technical background that can be leveraged for broad analysis, simulation, or testing capabilities. The highly collaborative and multidisciplinary nature of the group provides opportunities for Associate Staff to work on a variety of projects over time and explore new interests as they develop.

• MS in a STEM field (including, but not limited to: Physics, Math, Computer Science, Aerospace, Astrodynamics, Engineering, etc.)
  • OR Bachelor's degree with 3 or more years relevant experience
• Ability to understand implications of technical concepts
• Experience communicating complex concepts through technical presentations
• Experience with an object-oriented programming language
• Willingness to work in person on-site during standard business hours
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background investigation and willingness to obtain and maintain a Top Secret level security clearance

• Self-motivation – Ability to work independently with responsible time management.
• Collaboration – Ability to work in teams, particularly multi-disciplinary teams.

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $116,400-$140,000

Experienced Hiring Range: $116,400-$182,200

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including—but not limited to—the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: 

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work-life balance options
• ... and much more 

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.

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.

Requisition ID: 42561