Software Applications Developer

Job Overview

We are seeking a talented, experienced, and highly-motivated Software Developer to join the Visualization and Decision Support Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. You will assist in providing our customers with state‑of‑the‑art visualization and decision support software‑based solutions.

• Design, develop, test, and deploy scalable software solutions
• Lead complex software development projects from architecture to delivery
• Work with data scientists to transition research‑level code into production‑level software applications using sound software development principles
• Conduct code reviews and provide mentorship to junior developers
• Identify performance bottlenecks and optimize system efficiency
• Maintain and improve existing codebases and development practices
• Ensure software follows modern security and compliance best practices
• Stay current with emerging technologies and propose their adoption when applicable
• Execute tasking within an Agile development process

• Coordinate Software Engineering research and development activities between disciplines, exploring subject areas, defining scope, and selecting problems for investigation and development of novel concepts and approaches
• Mentor and train employees in the development of software‑related technical, project, and business development skills

• Background in database design (SQL and No
  
  SQL)
• Strong knowledge of APIs (RESTful and/or Graph
  
  QL)
• Fluency in Python
• Fluency in Java
• Fluency in SQL

• Current eligibility for a Top Secret clearance or higher, with potential for background investigation
• Experience with microservices architecture
• Exposure to AI/ML frameworks or tools (e.g., Tensor Flow, PyTorch)
• Solid experience with CI/CD pipelines and Dev Ops practices

Fully on‑site in either State College, PA or Reston, VA.

Applications Developer - Senior Professional:
Bachelor's Degree, 6+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent education and experience). Applications Developer - Advanced Professional:
Bachelor's Degree, 3+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent education and experience). No required certifications.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $76,700.00 – $. The proposed salary may be impacted by geographic differential.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage, robust retirement plans, paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time), and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and 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 814‑865‑1473.