About the role#
The Optical Engineering Group develops prototype satellite, airborne, and terrestrial optical systems. You will work across the entire development life-cycle of these systems. The team also conducts research on internal ideas and projects. As an intern, you will engage in hands-on research and participate in workshops, tech talks, and networking events.
What you'll do#
- Support the development of prototype optical systems.
- Conduct research on ideas generated within the group.
- Participate in the full life-cycle of optical system development.
- Engage in hands-on research alongside staff engineers.
- Attend professional development workshops and networking events.
What you'll need#
- Completion of Junior year or higher in an Optical Sciences or Optical Engineering degree track.
- A broad education in optical engineering, including coursework in geometrical and physical optics.
- Familiarity with optical component fabrication, system alignment, and testing.
- Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to produce and present professional written and oral reports.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.
Location & details#
- Location: Lexington, Massachusetts.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Status: Full-time and paid.
About MIT Lincoln Laboratory
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a federally funded research and development center. Founded in 1951, it focuses on technology development and system prototyping for national security. The organization is based in Lexington, Massachusetts. It employs over 4,000 people and works with industry partners to transition new concepts into deployed systems.
How to get in at MIT Lincoln Laboratory
Applying early to MIT Lincoln Laboratory gives you a distinct advantage, as recruiters often review candidates before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you get your materials in among the first. This timing often makes the difference in whether your application is seen at all. You can also improve your odds by reaching out to the right people. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles, allowing you to contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral. This direct approach often leads to better response rates than submitting your resume into a general queue.



