Software Engineer Job University Park area,Texas USA,Software Development

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our Applied Communications team of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. In this role, you'll implement and integrate advanced algorithms to support cutting‑edge research applications addressing critical Department of Defense challenges.

ARL is an authorized DoD Skill Bridge partner and welcomes applications from transitioning military members.

You Will:

Develop software solutions for cutting‑edge research in communications systems
Design applications, libraries, interfaces, and device drivers for diverse system‑level requirements
Implement and test algorithms across multiple domains: underwater, terrestrial, aerial, and space‑based platforms
Create signal processing software for advanced communication systems
Apply your technical expertise to solve complex national security challenges
Expand your skills into new and adjacent technology areas

Required Skills/Experience areas include:

Strong computer science fundamentals: data structures, algorithms, networking, distributed systems, memory management, security, databases, and hardware integration
Proficiency in C++ and C with strong object‑oriented programming principles
High‑performance algorithm design
Software architecture and infrastructure design expertise
Advanced Linux environment proficiency
Modern development tools:
Git, Git Lab, Atlassian suite (JIRA, Confluence, Bamboo, Artifactory, Bit Bucket, Sonar Qube)
Containerization and orchestration experience with Docker and Kubernetes
Understanding of mobile app and front‑end UI/UX development
Excellent communication skills with the ability to clearly articulate complex technical concepts
Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in cross‑functional teams
Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities with exceptional attention to detail
Demonstrated problem‑solving skills with structured approaches to solution development

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

Master's degree in Computer Science or related field
Managing multiple concurrent projects and priorities
Signal processing and algorithm development
Background in cellular and/or wireless communications
FPGA programming
Database expertise: SQL, No

SQL, and/or Big Data systems
Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and/or Java
Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and Dev Ops practices
Translating business requirements into technical specifications
ATAK or WinTAK plug‑in development experience
Cyber compliance policies and implementation requirements
Offline storage, threading, and performance optimization
Additional software languages (Rust, Bash, JavaScript, HTML, CSS)
Software libraries (Google Protocol Buffers, ZeroMQ, FastAPI, pytest, React, Tailwind)
Software tools (AWS, Vim, CMake, GDB)

You work location will be fully On‑site in State College, PA. Questions about work flexibility should be discussed with the hiring manager during interviews. Periodic travel required for field testing with small research teams.

Minimum Education , Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Research and Development Engineer
- Software (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree
- Engineering or Science, 2+ years of relevant experience. Required

Certifications:

None. If filled as Research and Development Engineer
- Software (ARL) - Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree
- Engineering or Science. No prior relevant work experience required. Required

Certifications:

None.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):
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. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain…