Systems Research and Development Engineer

Position Overview

We are searching for a highly motivated, self-starting Systems Research and Development Engineer to join our Agile Systems Engineering (ASE) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The ASE Department mission is to support research, design and application of engineering development methodologies supporting the strategic advancement of warfighter capability at the speed of relevance. Focus is on rapid development of complex engineering systems requiring the integration of cross-disciplinary solutions and expertise.

• Interface with project stakeholders to understand their requirements and ensure project success
• Work closely with senior engineers and subject matter experts
• Define system control and data architectures
• Perform systems engineering activities spanning typical DoD product development lifecycle
• Travel for stakeholder engagements (as needed)

• Indirect supervision and mentorship of other engineers
• Monitoring and tracking of funding and budgets
• Work independently on moderately complex work assignments, review progress, and evaluate results
• Communicate with external audiences for scheduling/coordination
• Communicate with external audiences for business purposes

• Technical background in Electrical or Systems Engineering
• Previous experience with detailed design and implementation of electrical circuits, software, and firmware
• Excellent communication, writing, and presentation skills

• Controls, simulation, and hardware-in-the-loop test set development and operation
• Hands‑on experience with electrical design, simulation, and test
• Working with standard laboratory test equipment such as oscilloscopes, function generators
• Model Based Systems Engineering training and experience
• Systems engineering fundamentals and project management
• Experience collaborating in multi-disciplinary, team-oriented cultures
• 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

• Research and Development Engineer – Systems (ARL) – Advanced Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science with 5+ years of relevant experience

• Research and Development Engineer – Systems (ARL) – Intermediate Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science with 2+ years of relevant experience

• Research and Development Engineer – Systems (ARL) – Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science (no prior relevant work experience required)

Full‑time, on‑site position in State College, PA.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies. Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. Employees must be U.S. citizens.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $92,100.00 – $. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, generous paid time off (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.