Summer Research Program Intern 2027, Mechanical Engineering (Group 07-71)

Location: Lexington, MA, US

The Mechanical Engineering Group provides innovative mechanical solutions for a wide range of advanced technologies. Our work has been in the areas of laser communication, high-energy lasers, telescopes, biomechanical materials, hypersonics, and radars, for systems deployed on ground, maritime, air- and space-borne platforms. We have expertise in precision engineering, opto-mechanisms, electronics packaging, large structures, composite materials, and additive manufacturing. We are the Engineering Division's center for 3D design and data management, and are involved in every step of a program's execution from conceptual design to system integration and test.

Position Description

The group seeks a summer research program intern to assist technical staff members with cutting-edge research and program execution in the Mechanical/Aerospace engineering.  Duties could include:

Engineering design including concept development using CAD software to make part models, generating drawings, and ensuring proper fabrication of parts.

Structural analysis including creating and running finite element models, analyzing model results, structural or thermal testing, and creating databases.

Hands-on work including prototyping, 3D printing, assembly, integration and testing of mechanical, opto-mechanical, and electro-mechanical systems. Testing duties may include test design, execution, and data analysis.

In addition to specific technical tasks, an employment experience at Lincoln Laboratory offers:

The opportunity to generate real-world impact to national security and broader society through your work on challenging technology problems.

Exposure to a broad and deep range of technologies, expertise, and senior government  stakeholders.

A strong culture of team success through individual growth.  This includes technical and professional development courses, and mentorship opportunities to continue your career journey.

A diverse workplace with an emphasis on work-life balance, employee resource groups, and other exciting opportunities.

The successful candidate will be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program of study in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautics/Astronautics, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Physics and have completed Mechanics of Materials or equivalent class. CAD, finite element analysis or prototyping experience is preferred, but not required.

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 are based on the highest academic year or degree completed before the internship start date.

Freshman year completed: $25.00/hour Sophomore year completed: $27.00/hour Junior year completed: $29.00/hour 4th year of 5 year program completed, no degree conferred: $32.00/hour Bachelors completed: $34.50/hour Bachelors + 1, one year of graduate study completed: $36.50/hour Bachelors + 2, two years of graduate study completed: $38.00/hour MS completed: $39.00/hour MS + 1, one year of graduate study completed after the MS: $41.00/hour MS + 2, two years of graduate study completed after the MS: $42.50/hour MS + 3, three years of graduate study completed after the MS: $43.50/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: 43356