Microwave Research and Development Engineer

Microwave Research and Development Engineer

We are seeking a Microwave Research and Development Engineer to join our Electromagnetic Effects and Applications (EMEA) team of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The EMEA department measures, analyzes, and evaluates radio frequency (RF) signatures of multiple platforms including undersea, maritime, land, and air. We provide comprehensive signature management solutions to support our customers' needs.

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.

• Oversee sensitive research and development focused on applied electromagnetics as a Principal Investigator (PI).
• Provide technical knowledge within the laboratory, develop concepts, and oversee sensitive research and development focused on applied electromagnetics.
• Offer knowledge in RF/microwave engineering for ground, air and sea-based operations.
• Possess knowledge of antenna concepts, parameters, and applications.
• Contribute to solutions for the automation/control of RF instrumentation.
• Conduct RF/microwave lab‑based and in‑the‑field measurements and experimentation.
• Facilitate measurements at outdoor test ranges, anechoic chamber, and EMC chambers.
• Assess and validate state‑of‑the‑art RF systems and solutions from the Defense Industrial Base.
• Assist with field‑measurement setups and test plans.
• Occasionally travel per sponsor and program requirements.

• Develop program management plans from the technical perspective and create technical documents that satisfy stakeholder requirements and expectations.
• Lead engineers in day‑to‑day tasking to accomplish programmatic deliverables; develop and present project/program status reports.
• Provide technical leadership within the laboratory in RF/microwave research.
• Facilitate relationships across the DoD and the IC with a focus on moving technologies from fundamental research to applied solutions.
• Perform the role of Trusted Agent to the government to assess and validate state‑of‑the‑art RF systems and solutions from the Defense Industrial Base.

• RF/microwave instrumentation including network analysis, spectrum analysis, antenna measurements, and RF materials characterization.
• In‑the‑lab and in‑the‑field troubleshooting of RF systems.
• Radar systems and hardware.
• MATLAB and/or Python for instrument control and data analysis.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Excellent report‑writing capability.
• RF/microwave engineering for ground, air and sea‑based operations.
• Electromagnetic simulation tools such as CST Microwave Studio or REMCOM XFdtd.
• Established understanding and expertise in RF/microwave measurement instrumentation.

• Active DoD SECRET (or higher) clearance.

This position will be fully on‑site in State College, PA.

• If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Senior Professional:
  Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science with 14+ years of relevant experience.
• If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Advanced Professional:
  Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science with 5+ years of relevant experience.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require 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 $ – $. 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. A generous 75% tuition discount is available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

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 .