Communications and Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer

Application Instructions

Internal Applicants: Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or student) or current Penn State students (not previously employed at the university) must log on to Workday to complete the internal or student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

External Applicants: If you are not a current employee or student, click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

We are searching for a proactive, technically strong Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to join the C3I Integrated Communications Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The engineer will support research, development, analysis, and prototyping of resilient communications and signal processing systems that directly contribute to national security and sponsor mission success.

ARL is an authorized DoD Skill Bridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply.

• Develop, test, and evaluate advanced signal processing algorithms and communication techniques
• Model and simulate communication system physical layer (PHY) protocols and waveforms
• Prototype communication capabilities using software-defined radios (SDRs) and open‑source tools
• Contribute to waveform, modulation, and algorithm design for challenging channel environments
• Perform system‑level analysis, theoretical evaluation, and performance assessments
• Document findings, prepare recommendations, and present results to sponsors
• Participate in field tests, demonstrations, and stakeholder engagements
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across ARL and with government sponsors

• Lead technical tasks or project components
• Conduct feasibility studies and shape program direction
• Provide technical mentorship to junior staff or students
• Contribute to division‑level research strategies and initiatives

• Technical background in communications and signal processing (e.g., waveform design, detection/estimation, protocol development, or channel modeling)
• Simulation or analysis tools such as MATLAB or Python
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary, team‑oriented environments
• Express technical ideas clearly through written and oral communication
• 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

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related field
• SDR development, laboratory or field testing, or data analysis
• Programming experience in Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar languages
• Wireless, underwater, satellite, or optical communication systems
• Communications security, AI/ML for communications, or network protocol development

This position will be fully on‑site located in State College, PA, Reston, VA or Annapolis Junction, MD
. Options for a hybrid on‑site/work‑from‑home arrangement may exist based on project needs. This role may require periodic CONUS and OCONUS travel to support field tests, demonstrations, or sponsor engagements.

If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Signal Processing (ARL) – Principal Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science, 19+ years of relevant experience. If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Signal Processing (ARL) – Senior Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science, 14+ years of relevant experience. No certifications required.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $ – $. The range includes an adjustment based on required geographic work location.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, substantial paid time off, and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children.