Hardware Research and Development Engineer

Position Overview

We are searching for a motivated and talented mid-level hardware engineer to join our Applied Signals & Systems Integration (ASSI) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. ASSI tackles multidisciplinary topics from signal processing to machine learning to algorithm design with a focus on sensor systems.

• Provide hands‑on leadership of project teams.
• Provide technical management and leadership of research and development tasks.
• Mentor entry‑level engineers in sound engineering practices.
• Play an active role in the entire sensor development process.
• Participate in the specification of system requirements and hardware/software architecture design.
• Design analog and digital electronic circuits and circuit boards.
• Assist in the development of new projects and proposals.
• Collaborate with engineers across ARL to deliver complex sensor systems.

• Automated testing and measurement, hardware calibration, hardware design, development, testing, and integration.
• Programming in MATLAB, LabVIEW, C/C++, or Python.
• Mixed‑signal design experience.
• Analog‑to‑digital converters and analog front‑end design.
• Familiarity with circuit modeling and simulation methodologies.

• A Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
• Experience with schematic entry and PCB layout using Altium Designer.
• Solid Works proficiency.
• Experience with MATLAB, LabVIEW, C/C++, and C#; design of DC‑DC converters, AC motor drives, and control algorithms.
• Production of technical documentation related to the design and building of complex systems.
• Modeling and simulation, software development, mechanical and power system design, and test and evaluation of sensor systems.
• Proficiency with Linux and Windows operating systems.
• Embedded system experience, including FPGAs, microcontrollers, and related entities.
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher.

Your working location will be on‑site at our offices in State College, PA. Periodic travel may be required for attendance at program meetings and/or in support of field testing or exercises.

• For Advanced Professional level:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science.
  • 5+ years of relevant experience.
• For Intermediate Professional level:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science.
  • 2+ years of relevant experience.

All positions require the ability to obtain a government security clearance. Candidates must be U.S. citizens. Successful completion of background checks and a pre‑employment drug screen is required. The position may require a Secret level clearance or higher.

Salary range: $86,300.00 – $, adjusted for geographic differential.

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 75% tuition discount for eligible employees and dependents.

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.