Group 07-75 | Summer Research Program Intern | Systems Engineering | Summer 2026

Our engineers ensure that all the components of a system work together to achieve the desired results. Our work ranges from trade and design studies at the beginning of a program to planning and executing the assembly, integration, and test of prototype systems. We also plan and execute testing to validate that a system performs properly. Our teams handle most of the large prototype systems developed by the Laboratory, including space payloads and satellites for sensing and communication, and airborne and ground-based systems. Recent technologies we have worked on include deployable antennas for small satellites and propulsion systems for CubeSats.

The Systems Engineering Group is seeking motivated summer interns to support our team in the areas of Systems Engineering and Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering. This internship offers hands-on experience in developing and testing advanced systems and components used in cutting-edge research and technology programs.

What You'll Work On:

• Assist with payload architecture definition, including optical, mechanical, and electrical subsystems
• Help create system-level block diagrams (electrical and/or mechanical)
• Conduct environmental hazard analyses for sensitive components
• Support integration and test planning activities
• Develop and run finite element models using tools such as MSC/PATRAN
• Analyze structural and thermal test data
• Design components and assemblies using SolidWorks
• Create and manage engineering databases
• Run software analysis codes to evaluate performance

Who We're Looking For:

• Current students with junior standing or higher in a relevant engineering discipline
• Fields of study may include Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautics/Astronautics, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) or computer-aided design (CAD) tools is helpful but not required

Why Join Us:
This internship is an opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges while learning from experts in the field. You'll gain exposure to a variety of disciplines and contribute to meaningful technical projects that make an impact.

Summer Research Program Overview

The Summer Research Program offers students the chance to apply their academic knowledge to real-world national security challenges while working alongside leading scientists and engineers. As an SRP intern, you'll engage in hands-on research, receive dedicated mentorship, and take part in professional development opportunities including workshops, tech talks, and networking events—all while building connections within a vibrant community of peers.

• Internships are typically 10–12 weeks, with flexible start and end dates, typically May through early August.
• Housing support is available for eligible non-local interns, including access to discounted university housing in Boston and a one-time taxable relocation payment.
• Complimentary daily shuttle transportation is provided from Boston-based housing to and from the Lab.

Compensation

Hourly pay rates below are effective January 2025 – December 2025 and will be reviewed again for Summer 2026.

• Freshman (BS expected May/June 2029): $24.50/hour
• Sophomore (BS expected May/June 2028): $26.00/hour
• Junior (BS expected May/June 2027): $28.00/hour
• Senior (5-year BS program, completed 4 years by May/June 2026): $31.00/hour
• Bachelor's degree completed in 2026: $34.50/hour
• BS + 1 (BS completed May/June 2025, 1st year of MS in 2025–26): $36.00/hour
• BS + 2 (BS completed May/June 2024, 2nd year of MS in 2025–26, degree not yet conferred): $37.50/hour
• MS (Master's degree expected May/June 2026): $38.00/hour
• MS + 1 (MS completed May/June 2025, 1st year of PhD in 2025–26): $40.50/hour
• MS + 2 (MS completed May/June 2024, 2nd year of PhD in 2025–26): $42.00/hour
• MS + 3 (MS completed May/June 2023, 3rd year of PhD in 2025–26): $43.00/hour

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: 42549