Advanced Communications & Signal Processing Engineer (R&D)

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University

Maryland

Hybrid

USD 168,000 - 318,840

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Tuition discount for employees

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State seeks a Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to support resilient communication systems for national security. You will work on research, development, analysis, and prototyping, contributing to mission success and sponsor outcomes.

The role emphasizes cross-disciplinary collaboration, system-level evaluation, and hands-on prototyping using SDRs, Python/MATLAB, and open-source tools, with opportunities for higher-level leadership on

Qualifications

Strong background in communications and signal processing, including waveform design, detection/estimation, protocol development or channel modeling.
Experience with MATLAB or Python for simulation/analysis.
Ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary, team-oriented environments.
Strong written and oral communication of technical ideas.
Eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher, with potential government background investigation.

Responsibilities

Develop, test, and evaluate advanced signal processing algorithms and communication techniques.
Model and simulate PHY protocols and waveforms in realistic channels.
Prototype communication capabilities using SDRs and open-source tools.
Contribute to waveform, modulation, and algorithm design for challenging environments.
Perform system-level analysis, theoretical evaluation, and performance assessments.
Document findings, prepare recommendations, and present results to sponsors.
Participate in field tests, demonstrations, and stakeholder engagements.
Collaborate with ARL and government sponsors across disciplines.