Printed Circuit Board Designer Co-Op (6-month term) - Group 07-76

The Software and Electronics Engineering Group collaborates with every research area at the Laboratory to create systems that accomplish their objectives in real-world scenarios and in unpredictable surroundings. Our engineers develop complex software and electronics systems, from concept to realization, for a variety of prototypes. We utilize the applied research approach to work on capabilities such as pointing and stabilization techniques to enable efficient space-based laser communication, and to build prototypes such as a ground-based sensor to detect biological threats in real time. Our engineers are developing airborne visual navigation; flight controls; and on-orbit pointing, acquisition, and tracking systems. We have expertise in space-qualified electronics, precision controls, firmware, embedded software, and application software. 

Position Description

Group 76, Software and Electronics Engineering, is seeking a part-time or full-time Co-Op Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Designer for schematic capture and PCB layout of mixed-signal, high speed digital, RF, and power PCBs. The Co-Op will be for a 6-month duration, with the option to continue if the arrangement is working well. Start date can be as soon as possible, or as late as Spring Semester 2027. The candidate will be introduced to all aspects of designing and manufacturing RF, high speed digital, mixed signal, and power PCBs, both rigid and flexible, for ground and space-based systems. A typical project can require interfacing with mechanical, structural, thermal, and electronics engineering teams, creating design documentation, and coordinating with fabrication and assembly resources.

A successful candidate will be comfortable working in an innovative engineering group to accommodate changing demands. The candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple concurrent projects as well as demonstrate strong initiative and problem-solving skills and be able to independently research solutions to new design and manufacturing challenges. Good estimating and time-management skills are necessary to meet critical schedules. Must be able to communicate clearly with teammates, administrators, and outside vendors. 

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 

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen, able to qualify for and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance

• Working toward an Associate’s degree in CAD Technology, Mechanical Design, Electronics, or equivalent practical experience 

• Self-driven and self-disciplined, with a strong work ethic 

• Proven graphic skills and conceptual abilities

• Demonstrated proficiency in oral, written, and graphical communication skills 

• Experience with mechanical or electrical CAD systems 

• Familiar with mechanical drafting and dimensioning practices 

• Exposure to PCB design, manufacturing, or assembly technologies

• Must be comfortable and productive in a highly computerized work environment 

• Demonstrated ability to interact with others respectfully and develop productive working relationships 

• Able to work constructively alone or in larger teams to meet the needs of the project 

Desired (any of the following)

• Familiarity working in high reliability design 

• Experience with best practices for Analog, RF and/or hybrid digital designs 

• Experience with best practices for blind and buried via designs 

• Experience with Siemens Xpedition, Pads and simulation outputs such as HyperLynz

• Experience with Altium Designer or similar 

• Experience with AutoCAD, Solidworks, or other MCAD software

• IPC Designer Certification CID l or willingness to pursue IPC Certified Interconnect Designer Certification 

• Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management systems and design-to-PLM workflows 

Hybrid onsite expectation

• Some tasks will be able to be accomplished remotely using an LL-provided laptop.

• Other tasks will require onsite work in Lexington, MA 

• No work will be performed on a non-LL computer 

Compensation

Technical Co-Op: $25 – $32 per hour (based on year in school)

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: 43331