Lead RF Engineer

The Cyber-Physical Systems Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory focuses on enabling full-scope DoD, IC, and civilian government operations within the cyber domain and across traditional mission domains and sensing layers. Our focus is research and development of systems providing situational awareness (SA) and command and control (C2) in the cyber domain. Key technology development thrusts include novel sensors, actuators, sense‑making, decision support, knowledge representation, Human Machine Interface (HMI), visualization, automated planning, cloud‑based information sharing architectures.

We integrate these capabilities into secure, resilient, cost‑effective information sharing architectures in support of effective mission operations. Group strengths include software development, significant testbed infrastructure, and connections to challenges, people, systems and data from multiple operational communities. Additionally, we have access to a number of government systems into which we integrate, deploy, and evaluate performance and effectiveness of mission operations.

Overall, we seek to leap ahead of evolving cyber threats and enable comprehensive and secure use of the cyber domain for military and intelligence missions.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory seeks a Lead RF Engineer with expertise in signal processing, embedded systems, and cybersecurity to advance our mission‑critical programs. The ideal candidate will combine hands‑on experience in real‑time software development (C/C++, Python), digital signal processing (DSP), and RF engineering with technical leadership skills to mentor teams delivering solutions for environments at the tactical edge.

• Lead full‑cycle development of real‑time, resource‑constrained systems (e.g., SDR‑based adaptive filtering, GPS spoofing mitigation) using AI/ML and DSP techniques
• Architect and prototype cybersecurity capabilities to counteract SIGINT threats, jamming interference, and target tracking challenges
• Collaborate with stakeholders to design functioning prototypes aligned with operational constraints
• Mentor junior engineers in software development methodologies, technical problem‑solving, and embedded software lifecycle management
• Communicate complex concepts clearly to senior leadership and non‑specialist audiences

• PhD or MS with 5+ years experience. Degree requirement in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related fields
• Top Secret (SCI) clearance, with prior work on DOD/intelligence programs (SIGINT, SATCOM, RF systems)
• Proficiency in DSP algorithm design, embedded software development (C/C++, Python), and real‑time system integration
• Familiarity with RF prototyping tools (e.g., SDR, MATLAB), test environments, and low‑level hardware interfaces
• Demonstrated leadership in technical teams, including mentorship of junior staff and program management

• Experience with AI/ML for signal analysis or cybersecurity (e.g., ML‑enhanced emitter classification)
• Strong commitment to innovation in cyber‑physical sensing systems, including field‑deployable solutions

Ideal candidates are eager to build on their expertise in SIGINT applications, real‑time SWaP‑constrained systems, and AI development to address high‑stakes national security challenges. They should demonstrate proven leadership in delivering mission‑critical defense solutions, and possess hands‑on experience with prototype development, from design to implementation, testing, and transition to users.

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200–$170,000

Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200–$220,000

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including— but not limited to—the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements.

This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

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