POSITION SPECIFICSWe are searching for an
innovative and technically skilled SD-WAN Solutions Development Engineer to join our Cloud Technology Advancement Department within the Cyber, Modeling and Simulation (CMS) Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our department advances cutting-edge networking solutions for DoD, 4th estate, and IC communities. In this role, you will design, develop, and implement next-generation Software Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) solutions that directly impact national security through network modernization and technology innovation.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:- Design and develop next-generation SD-WAN architectures and solutions for DoD and IC environments
- Research, prototype, and advance emerging SD-WAN technologies including SASE, zero-trust architectures, and cloud-integrated networking
- Implement network automation frameworks using Python, Ansible, and infrastructure-as-code tools
- Deploy and test SD-WAN solutions in both connected and internet-disconnected (Dark Cloud) environments
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition R&D innovations from concept through prototype to operational solutions
- Document technical specifications, research findings, and architecture designs
- Support solution deployments and troubleshooting in classified environments
Additional responsibilities for higher level positions include:- Lead technical architecture design, discovery, and validation for complex SD-WAN implementations
- Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on advanced networking concepts
- Take responsibility and accountability for program outcomes and research deliverables
- Present technical concepts and innovations to senior leadership including General Officers, SES, or Presidential appointees
- Drive strategic technical discussions supporting technology adoption and modernization initiatives
Required skills/experience areas include:- Hands-on experience designing and implementing SD-WAN solutions using hardware-based or software-based platforms (e.g., Cisco Viptela, Fortinet, Palo Alto Prisma, VMware VeloCloud, Juniper Session Smart Router, or DISA APL-listed solutions)
- Strong understanding of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), overlay technologies (VXLAN, GRE, IPsec), and WAN optimization
- Experience with network automation and programmability using scripting languages (Python, Ansible) and APIs
- Deep knowledge of DoD/IC security concepts including zero-trust architectures, encryption, and secure network segmentation
- Active DoD Secret clearance (minimum requirement)
- DoD 8140/8570 IAT II baseline certification (Security+ce, GSEC, or SSCP)
Preferred skills/experience areas include:- Active DoD TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI with Polygraph (highly preferred; clearance upgrades may be required based on program needs)
- Experience with Rapid Prototype and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) advancement in networking domain
- SASE architecture implementation and multi-cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Dell enterprise switching (OS10, PowerSwitch) or Juniper platforms (SRX, MX Series, Junos OS)
- Software development experience for network automation and DevSecOps integration
- Network Function Virtualization (NFV), SDN controllers, and containerized networking (Kubernetes, service meshes)
- Industry certifications: CCNA/CCNP/CCIE, Fortinet NSE, Palo Alto PCNSE, Juniper JNCIS/JNCIP, VMware VCP-NV, DoD 8140/8570 IAT III (CISSP/CASP), or vendor-specific SD-WAN certifications
- Publication record or patent portfolio in networking domain
- U.S. Military Veterans & U.S. Military Reservists
Your working location fully on-site located in State College, PA, but options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. This position will require periodic travel with limited notice (potentially less than 3 days) in support of solution deployments, testing, or troubleshooting to locations including Europe, Asia, San Diego CA, and other CONUS locations.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science14+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.eduSALARY & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $191,000.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
