Electrical Engineering Support Specialist

Overview

We are searching for an Electrical Engineering Support Specialist to join the Electrical and Mechanical Solutions Department at The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. In this role, you will contribute to a variety of projects that support the command, control, and communication missions for our military sponsors. You’ll be hands‑on with the fabrication, assembly, and validation of complex hardware designs and will have the opportunity to support field work at locations around the world.

• Perform assembly operations and fabricate deliverable equipment.
• Evaluate, recommend, and purchase materials and components to meet operation specifications and interact with vendors.
• Install, calibrate, operate, and/or maintain standard and non‑standard equipment, experimental hardware, and computer systems.
• Assist with or assess system faults; repair/adjust standard and non‑standard equipment.
• Provide input to the layout, fabrication, assembly, documentation, and testing of standard and non‑standard equipment.
• Assist senior technical/engineering staff in gathering, compiling, and archiving test data.
• Work as part of a test project team.
• Additional responsibilities for higher‑level positions include: provide input and perform design and layout of standard test equipment; inspect, test, and calibrate parts and equipment; evaluate the selection of materials and components based on operational and performance specifications; assess and identify system faults; adjust and repair as needed; perform task leadership roles; develop and provide documentation for task procedures and process evaluation.

• Electronics and/or electro‑mechanics components, including understanding schematics, assembly drawings, interpreting component datasheets, and soldering surface‑mount and lead‑attached components.
• Past success operating electronic test equipment (Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzer, Signal Generators, Oscilloscopes) and assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of electronic components.
• Microsoft Office software proficiency.
• Willingness to perform basic computer tasks and an interest in learning new programs.

• Active security clearance, Secret level.
• Experience with schematic entry and layout software such as Altium.
• Experience with mechanical design software such as Solid Works or Fusion 360.
• Experience with RF hardware including amplifiers, attenuators, mixers, coaxial cable, receivers, and transmitters.

• If filled as Engineering Support Specialist – Intermediate Professional:
  Associate Degree + 2+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• If filled as Engineering Support Specialist – Professional:
  Associate Degree with no prior relevant work experience required; prior relevant experience accepted in lieu of education.
• Required
  
  Certifications:
  
  None.

• Requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies.
• All positions at ARL require the ability to obtain a government security clearance; a security clearance will be required during the interview process if applicable.
• Candidate must be a U.S. citizen.
• Pre‑employment drug screen required.

• Salary range: $46,400.00 – $74,000.00. The proposed salary range may be impacted by a geographic differential.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plans; paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick time; and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees, 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 814‑865‑1473.