POSITION SPECIFICSWe are seeking a Software Engineer to join the Applied Communications team in the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. In this role, you'll implement and integrate advanced algorithms to support cutting-edge research applications addressing critical Department of Defense challenges.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes applications from transitioning military members.
You will:- Develop software solutions for cutting-edge research in communications systems
- Design applications, libraries, interfaces, and device drivers for diverse system-level requirements
- Implement and test algorithms across multiple domains: underwater, terrestrial, aerial, and space-based platforms
- Create signal processing software for advanced communication systems
- Apply your technical expertise to solve complex national security challenges
- Expand your skills into new and adjacent technology areas
Additional responsibilities of higher-level position includes:- Provide technical leadership on software engineering projects
- Mentor team members in technical skills, project management, and business development
- Present technical concepts and project updates to external stakeholders and collaborators
Required Skills/Experience areas include:- Strong computer science fundamentals: data structures, algorithms, networking, distributed systems, memory management, security, databases, and hardware integration
- Proficiency in C++ and C with strong object-oriented programming principles
- High-performance algorithm design
- Software architecture and infrastructure design expertise
- Advanced Linux environment proficiency
- Modern development tools: Git, GitLab, Atlassian suite (JIRA, Confluence, Bamboo, Artifactory, BitBucket, SonarQube)
- Containerization and orchestration experience with Docker and Kubernetes
- Understanding of mobile app and front-end UI/UX development
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to clearly articulate complex technical concepts
- Demonstrated problem-solving skills with structured approaches to solution development
Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:- Master's degree in Computer Science or related field
- Management of multiple concurrent projects and priorities
- Signal processing and algorithm development
- Cellular and/or wireless communications
- FPGA programming
- Database expertise: SQL, NoSQL, and/or Big Data systems
- MATLAB, Python, and/or Java
- CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices
- Translation of business requirements into technical specifications
- ATAK or WinTAK plug-in development experience
- Cyber compliance policies and implementation requirements
- Offline storage, threading, and performance optimization
- Additional software languages (Rust, Bash, JavaScript, HTML, CSS)
- Software libraries (Google Protocol Buffers, ZeroMQ, FastAPI, pytest, React, Tailwind)
- Software tools (AWS, Vim, CMake, GDB)
Your working location will be fully on-site in State College, PA. Questions about work flexibility should be discussed with the hiring manager during interviews.
This role requires periodic travel required for field testing with small research teams
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science14+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ 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 Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.eduBACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCESEmployment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $121,704.00 - $231,000.00.
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.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICSPursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
