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Technical Staff - Lead Systems Engineer - Advanced Space Technologies

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Lincoln Lab)

Lexington, MA · Posted October 10, 2026

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About the job

The Advanced Capabilities and Technologies Group researches and develops high risk / high reward technology for advanced ground and satellite systems that are used for space domain awareness, space control, earth observation and scientific missions. Our work focuses on the development of novel concepts, instruments and algorithms. Projects range from laboratory-scale technology/concept development to delivery of large ground- and space-based prototypes that are transitioned into operational use. The group integrates expertise in a wide range of disciplines, including physics, astronomy, engineering, applied mathematics and computer science.

Lead Systems Engineer - Advanced Space Technologies (Technical Staff)

Group 91 – Advanced Capabilities and Technologies – is seeking an experienced professional with a backgroundin mechanical/aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics or a closely related field to support systems analysis and hardware prototyping activities. A successful candidate should have demonstrated experience leading small-to-medium-sized interdisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists. This individual is expected to support multiple aspects of technology development including modeling and analysis, laboratory testing, system integration, and field data collection. Specific knowledge of or expertise in hypersonics, propulsion and spacecraft systems and sensors are also highly desirable in a successful job candidate. Travel to field sites to participate in meetings or experiment measurement campaigns may be required.

Requirements

7+ years demonstrated experience in an industry, FFRDC/UARC, or defense environment

MS or PhD degree in engineering, physics or a related technical field

Demonstrated ability to conceive, design, and analyze novel technical solutions to challenging engineeringproblems

Demonstrated experience in leading technical teams for analysis and hardware prototyping efforts

Preferred Qualifications:

10-15+ years demonstrated experience in an industry, FFRDC/UARC, or defense environment

Experience developing technology for national security applications

Specific knowledge of or expertise in hypersonics, propulsion and spacecraft systems and sensors

Excellent oral and written communications skills, including ability to communicate experimental results tosponsors or audiences who may not be technical experts

Active Top Secret or higher clearance

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200-$170,000 Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200-$220,000

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: 42920