Software Test Lead - Associate Staff (Group 76)

About the Role

The Software and Electronics Engineering Group (76) 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.

Responsibilities

• Serving as the test lead for AI&T activities, owning system-level test execution across hardware and software disciplines
• Planning and coordinating test operations, including managing the test job board and prioritizing work for test operators and engineers
• Lead hands-on lab testing, configuring and operating electronic test equipment and automated test setups to verify system performance against requirements
• Drive test automation and process improvements to increase repeatability, efficiency, and traceability of tests and results

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field and at least 3 years of relevant experience. A bachelor's degree and at least 6 years of relevant experience will be considered
• Strong scripting experience (e.g., COSMOS, Ruby, or similar)
• Programming experience in C/C++
• Experience using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, waveform generators, spectrum analyzers and logic analyzers for integration and hardware debugging
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary team
• Experience leading small teams
• Strong communication skills with the ability to coherently convey complex technical details to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Collateral Secret clearance
• TS/SCI clearance preferred

Desired Qualifications

Two or more of the following:

• Background in satellites, autonomous vehicles, or modern controls
• Familiarity with writing software/HDL for hardware (GPU, FPGA)
• Experience developing low level drivers
• Experience with Agile development methodologies
• Familiarity with DevSecOps pipeline processes and technologies
• Experience with debuggers such as gdb, lldb, etc
• Knowledge of communication and hardware protocols (e.g. UDP, TCP, UART, SPI, I2C, USB, PCIe, MIPI)
• Experience designing and developing hard real-time software
• Experience developing software for high reliability environments (DO-178, ISO 13485, NPR 7150.2)

Growth Opportunities

We support a wide variety of mechanisms for staff to continually grow their skills including:

• Direct mentorship within the Group and across MIT LL for projects and career guidance
• Participation in programs across MIT LL to broaden your network internally and externally
• Community exposure through external conferences/meetings and internal workshops that draw senior leaders from government and industry
• Continuing education through both external and internal courses on a variety of technical, communication, and work/project management fundamentals

Pay

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $116,400 - $140,000. Experienced Hiring Range: $116,400 - $182,200. 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.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work-life balance options
• Other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks

Schedule

80% onsite expectation. Occasional travel to support field exercises, presentations to sponsors and the community, and other events may be required.