Group 07-76 | SRP Intern | Control & Autonomous Systems Engineering | Summer 2026

Overview

 

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, located at the vibrant nexus of academia, industry, and government, we are renowned for our groundbreaking solutions to some of the nation’s most intricate and complex challenges. Within the Engineering Division, our team collaborates extensively—not only within the Laboratory but also across the MIT campus—bridging a myriad of disciplines to innovate through robust analysis, design, prototyping, and testing.

 

Our team culture is energized by a group of talented professionals who bring a rich mix of skills and experiences to the table. We champion a balanced approach to work and life, promoting productivity through flexible schedules and hybrid work arrangements.

 

The Control and Autonomous Systems Engineering Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory is at the forefront of research and development in autonomy. Our projects range from theoretical research to the actual deployment of systems in oceanic, terrestrial, aerial, and space environments. We are looking for innovative thinkers who are eager to drive advancements in autonomous systems and robotics. If you are ready to contribute to cutting-edge research and development within a multidisciplinary team, MIT Lincoln Laboratory offers a dynamic and supportive environment for you to thrive.

 

Position Description

 

The Control and Autonomous Systems Engineering Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory is seeking applicants with strong interest in embedded hardware and/or embedded software. Interest in interfacing with and controlling physical objects in the real world is preferred.

 

Requirements

 

• Pursuing degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field
• Strong programming skills in a systems language (e.g., C++ or Rust), a numerical analysis language (e.g., Julia, MATLAB, or Python), and a scripting language (e.g., Python, Bash, or Lua)
• Experience developing in Linux environments
• Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills

 

Desired Skills

 

• Background in satellites, autonomous vehicles, and modern controls
• Familiarity with writing software/HDL for highly parallelized hardware (GPU, FPGA)
• Experience developing low level drivers
• Experience with debuggers such as gdb, lldb, etc
• Knowledge of communication and hardware protocols (e.g. UDP, TCP, UART, SPI, I2C, USB, PCIe, MIPI)
• Experience with real time software and RTOS
• Familiarity with circuit simulation tools such as PSpice and PCB design / layout
• Experience using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, waveform generators, spectrum analyzers and logic analyzers for integration and hardware debugging

 

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.

 

Learn more about the Summer Research Program at: https://www.ll.mit.edu/careers/student-opportunities/summer-research-program

 

 

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 (M