Simulation Software Engineer

Position Overview

We are searching for a Simulation Software Engineer to join our Simulation Software (SSW) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This motivated and talented individual will perform software development activities supporting undersea system simulations for a variety of Department of Defense (DoD) applications.

• Analyze, design, implement, and maintain software associated with undersea systems modeling and simulation, including interfaces used to execute simulations by other applications.
• Integrate and analyze vehicle software, including guidance and control, signal processing, and vehicle controllers into larger digital simulations.
• Design, set up, and execute software tests for simulation verification and validation, including identification of appropriate metrics.
• Document algorithms, code designs, and software tests in accordance with modern software development practices.
• Perform Simulation Software Engineering tasks of a large scope or lead specific tasks within the project scope.
• May mentor and/or train lower-level employees and students in the department.

• Provide technical leadership within the division for projects/programs.
• Make substantial contributions to determining feasibility of program goals.

• Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline plus five years' relevant experience.
• One or more of C/C++, Python, Fortran, Ada, MATLAB, and Simulink.
• Linux operating system experience.
• Ability to engage in constructive debate, expressing ideas clearly and actively listening to diverse viewpoints in a small team environment to meet challenging design and program objectives.
• Ability to clearly articulate technical information to program sponsors and management.

• A Master's degree in Acoustics, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Science, Applied Mathematics, or Computer Science.
• Version control software such as Git.
• Experience developing software using modern practices in an Agile/SCRUM environment.
• Success in an office environment, where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective.
• 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.

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA. This position may require periodic travel to remote locations in support of testing as part of a small team of researchers, engineers, and technologists.

Minimum requirements vary by grade:
If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Senior Professional, the position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science with 14+ years of relevant experience. If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Advanced Professional, the position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science with 5+ years of relevant experience.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; applicants will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $ – $. The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, and sick time); and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees, 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 .