Hardware Research and Development Engineer

Hardware Research and Development Engineer

Apply now for the Hardware Research and Development Engineer at The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University.

We are searching for a motivated and talented mid‑level Hardware Engineer to join our Applied Signals & Systems Integration (ASSI) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. ASSI tackles multidisciplinary topics from signal processing to machine learning to algorithm design with a focus on sensor systems. ARL is an authorized DoD Skill Bridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

• Provide hands‑on leadership of project teams.
• Provide technical management and leadership of research and development tasks.
• Mentor entry‑level engineers in sound engineering practices.
• Have an active role in the entire sensor development process.
• Participate in the specification of system requirements and hardware/software architecture design.
• Design analog and digital electronic circuits and circuit boards.
• Assist in the development of new projects and proposals.
• Collaborate with engineers across ARL to deliver complex sensor systems.

• Automated testing and measurement, hardware calibration, hardware design, development, testing, and integration.
• Programming in MATLAB, LABVIEW, C/C++, or Python.
• Mixed‑signal design.
• Analog‑to‑digital converters and analog front‑end design.
• Familiarity with circuit modelling and simulation methodologies.

• A Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
• Schematic entry and PCB layout using Altium Designer.
• Solid Works.
• Design of DC‑DC converters, AC motor drives, and control algorithms.
• Producing required technical documentation related to the design and building of complex systems.
• Modelling and simulation, software development, mechanical and power system design, test and evaluation of sensor systems.
• Linux and Windows OS systems.
• Embedded systems to include FPGAs, microcontrollers, and similar entities.
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

Your working location will be on‑site at our offices in State College, PA. Periodic travel may be required for attendance at program meetings and/or in support of field testing or exercises.

If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Advanced Professional, this position requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science and 5+ years of relevant experience. No certifications required.

If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Intermediate Professional, this position requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science and 2+ years of relevant experience. No certifications required.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 – $. The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.

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.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed, regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.