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Engineer - Image Processing, Control Systems, and Astrodynamics

MIT Lincoln Laboratory

MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Lexington, MA, USA
Posted on Oct 3, 2025

The Advanced Electro-Optical Systems Group specializes in the rapid design and prototyping of innovative electro-optic systems that support the Department of Defense, NASA, and other U.S. government organizations. The group has deep expertise in satellite systems, electro-optical and infrared sensors, electronics, image processing, and low-SWaP (size, weight, and power) optical communications. By combining hardware and software development under one roof, the group rapidly architects, prototypes, and deploys end-to-end systems tailored to mission needs. We work closely with end users to transform enabling concepts into operational capabilities on accelerated timelines.

We are seeking self-motivated engineers and scientists with multidisciplinary skill sets and a passion for prototyping cutting-edge systems that address critical national challenges.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated engineer with expertise in image processing, control systems, and astrodynamics. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical foundation and hands-on experience with hardware systems and/or embedded software. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to the design, development, and deployment of advanced aerospace systems in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Job responsibilities include the following:

  • Design, analyze, and implement algorithms in image processing, control systems, and/or astrodynamics.
  • Develop models and simulations to evaluate system performance and mission concepts.
  • Integrate software with hardware components, including sensors, actuators, and embedded platforms.
  • Support test planning, execution, and data analysis for laboratory and field experiments.
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to define requirements, troubleshoot issues, and deliver solutions.

Above all, we are looking for someone who is curious, self-directed, and excited to work across both software and hardware domains to implement rapid electro-opto-mechanical systems for space applications.

Requirements

  • A deep technical foundation in astrodynamics, control systems and/or image processing
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • This is an on-site, collaborative role.
  • Master’s in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field. In lieu of a Master's, a Bachelor’s with 5 years of experience will be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop systems, sensors, and actuators.
  • Prior work with space systems, autonomous vehicles, or robotics.
  • Experience developing and testing embedded real-time control systems.
  • Proficiency in C++, RUST and/or embedded systems programming.
  • Background in sensor integration and data fusion.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or other modeling/simulation tools.
  • Experience with optical systems (FPAs, lasers, lenses, etc.).

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: 42344