Technical Engineer

United States, Pennsylvania, University Park

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.

We are searching for a technical engineer to serve as the leader and program coordinator for a government-sponsored UUV program supported at Penn State ARL. The role coordinates efforts of multiple technical teams—including hydrodynamics, materials, structures, energy, autonomy, communications, and systems engineering—and acts as the primary point of contact with the government sponsor. The engineer will use technical and programmatic skills to organize and track the research and development plan and tasks, prepare and execute budgets, and ensure the program is effectively executed.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for communication and program coordination with the government sponsor on a UUV research program.
• Lead and coordinate multiple technical subject teams at Penn State ARL on the UUV program.
• Prepare, manage, and execute program budgets across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Collaborate with various parts of Penn State ARL to create a seamless team for the sponsor.
• Coordinate with the sponsor and performers to complete independent validation of performer results.
• Review and ensure deliverables such as quarterly reports and technical white papers are met and completed.
• Attend and lead meetings with sponsors and performers.

• Master's degree or higher in an Engineering or Science discipline, plus at least 12–15 years of related experience.
• Principal Investigator, leadership role, or management of cross-discipline technical teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a track record of writing white papers or reports.
• Research program plan development.
• Previous success managing programs or people with supervisory experience.
• Eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher, and willingness to undergo a government background investigation if required.

• Experience working with UUVs or on U.S. Navy programs.
• Demonstrated leadership of successful multi-discipline research projects.

A hybrid of on-site/work from home is offered; the primary on-site location is State College, PA, with possible presence in Reston, VA. This position requires travel for sponsor interactions, program representation, and collaboration with the Penn State ARL team in State College, PA.

Employment requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies and the ability to obtain a government security clearance. The candidate must be a U.S. citizen and will undergo a pre-employment drug screen.

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 .