Software Research and Development Engineer

Location: Penn State University Park

Time Type: Full time

Job Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

We are searching for a Software Research and Development Engineer to join the Command and Control Software Solutions Department of the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State. Our team works at the intersection of software development, data modeling, simulation, and sensor systems—building tools that improve decision-making, automation, and system performance. You will work with our team to integrate diverse sensor types, data sources, and analytical methods to solve complex national security challenges.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

• Develop and test software components for data-driven applications, including front-end and back-end functionality
• Leverage modern development tools including AI assistants to write, test, and document high-quality code efficiently
• Work with engineers and scientists to implement algorithms, models, and data processing pipelines
• Apply engineering fundamentals to solve technical problems and contribute to system design decisions
• Support the design and execution of experiments and testing activities, including data collection and analysis
• Assist in integrating software into prototype systems and participate in demonstrations to stakeholders
• Communicate results and ideas through clear documentation, presentations, and visualizations
• Collaborate in a team environment and contribute to technical discussions, design reviews, and problem-solving efforts

Required Skills/Experience areas include:

• Programming language such as Python, Java, Rust, or C++
• Basic software development practices (debugging, version control, testing)
• Ability to apply foundational mathematics or statistics concepts
• Interest in working in a multidisciplinary, collaborative environment
• Strong communication skills and eagerness to learn, adapt, and grow
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Top Secret/ SCI level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

• Degree in Computer Science or Mathematics
• Data processing, modeling, or visualization
• Exposure to sensor systems, embedded systems, or robotics
• Agile development practices (e.g., Scrum, Kanban)
• Common development tools (e.g., Git, IDEs)
• Basic DevOps skills, including experience with Kubernetes, Docker, and CI/CD pipelines
• Coursework or projects in areas such as machine learning, signal processing, or simulation

Your working location will be fully on-site located in State College, PA but options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as R&D 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 R&D Engineer - Software (ARL) - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science No prior relevant work experience required Required Certifications: None

 

ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu.

 

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 areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

 

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $92,100.00 - $174,708.00.

 

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

 

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

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.

 

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