Group 106 | Co-Op IT/ Sys Admin | Active Optical Systems Group | Jul - Dec 2026

Position Description

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a leading research center focused on advancing national security through cutting-edge technology. It tackles complex challenges in areas like cybersecurity, communications, and air defense, working to develop innovative solutions for the U.S. and its allies. MIT Lincoln Laboratory offers the chance to work on impactful projects, gain hands-on experience, and collaborate with experts in a dynamic, problem-solving environment. It’s an exciting opportunity to contribute to real-world technologies that shape the future of national security.

The Active Optical Systems Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory develops cutting-edge optical and infrared sensor technologies for national security applications, including laser radar systems (LADAR) and advanced imaging sensors. The group works on exciting projects in areas like surveillance, mapping, and threat detection.

As an undergraduate co-op, you’ll have the opportunity to work on these innovative systems, gaining hands-on experience and collaborating with top researchers. The position reports to a Northeastern Alumnus who completed all three of his co-ops in this very group, offering valuable mentorship and insight into the work. This is a unique opportunity to build your skills and grow your network in a dynamic, high-impact environment.

CO-OP Student – (IT / Systems Administrator - Active Optical Systems Group)

Join the Active Optical Systems Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory for a unique IT internship where you'll play a key role in supporting the group’s essential systems and infrastructure. In this role, you’ll support daily IT needs—troubleshooting computers, configuring operating systems (Windows 11, Windows Server, Linux), and maintaining network infrastructure—while also having opportunities to tinker with and build systems that support cutting-edge research projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support day-to-day IT needs, including troubleshooting and system maintenance.
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows and Linux operating systems.
• Manage network configurations and ensure software licenses are up to date.
• Assist with implementing security measures in line with government and Laboratory policies.

This internship offers more than just traditional IT work—you’ll gain exposure to a variety of projects, learning from the innovative work being done in optical systems. You'll have the opportunity to experiment, solve problems, and help create systems that support advanced research, giving you a broad, hands-on experience that will be invaluable for your future career.

If you’re eager to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment while broadening your technical skills, apply now!

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Computer Science/Computer Engineering/Networking/IT Degree program with a GPA of 3.3 or higher
• Completed at least 1-2 years of undergraduate study (or equivalent) prior to employment
• Knowledgeable of various operating systems:  Windows, Windows Server, Unix/Linux, /macOS
• Basic understanding of, and ability to diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and networking challenges
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office application software
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
• Eagerness to learn and take initiative in solving problems
• Willingness to take on new challenges and drive tasks forward with minimal direction

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with desktop level hardware and software applications like Office, OS Imaging (i.e. kickstart or Microsoft Deployment Toolkit), BitLocker.
• Working knowledge of scripting languages such as bash, Perl or python
• Work experience in mission critical environments

Outcomes

By the end of the co-op, you will have gained hands-on experience in developing and supporting rapid, field-deployable systems. You’ll learn how to configure and troubleshoot complex network infrastructures, maintain and optimize operating systems, and ensure systems are ready for real-time deployment. You'll also gain insight into how these systems are built to support critical national security applications, developing a deeper understanding of how to design, implement, and maintain technology that is both highly efficient and adaptable for field use. This experience will strengthen your skills in system administration and system deployment in high-stakes, fast-paced settings.

Compensation

Compensation for 2025 (will be reviewed for 2026)

• Technical Co-Op: $24.50 – $31.00 per hour (based on year in school)
• Administrative Co-Op: $21.50 – $25.00 per hour (based on year in school)