Applied Electromagnetic/RF Research and Development Engineer

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 105,900 - 231,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University seeks an Applied Electromagnetic/RF R&D Engineer for the Spectrum and Signature Solutions team. The role focuses on leadership in RF/microwave research, instrument-based measurements, and field testing to support warfighter advantages and national interests.

You will oversee PI-led projects, develop RF concepts, and collaborate with DoD partners, IC, and industry to translate research into applied solutions. A U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science required.
• 14+ years of relevant experience for Senior level is shown in job postings.
• U.S. citizen with ability to obtain DoD security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee sensitive R&D focused on applied electromagnetics as PI.
• Provide technical leadership and develop concepts for RF systems.
• Conduct RF/microwave lab-based and field measurements across ground, air, and sea operations.
• Facilitate measurements at test ranges and EMC chambers.
• Travel as required by sponsor/program.

Skills

RF/microwave instrumentation

Lab/field troubleshooting

MATLAB

Python

Communication

Report writing

RF system engineering

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Master's degree

PhD

Tools

CST Microwave Studio

REMCOM XFdtd

Job description

We are seeking an Applied Electromagnetic/RF Research and Development Engineer to join our Spectrum and Signature Solutions team of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This division is invested in the spectrum convergence mission space. Our mission is to understand, shape, and exploit the electromagnetic environment for the Warfighter’s advantage. Develop strategic & operational advantages for the warfighter, and defend national interests across the vehicle domain.

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

You Will:

• Oversee sensitive research and development focused on applied electromagnetics as a Principal Investigator (PI)
• Provide technical knowledge within the laboratory, develop concepts, and oversee sensitive research and development focused on applied electromagnetics
• Provide knowledge in RF/microwave engineering for ground, air and sea-based operations
• Contribute to solutions for the automation/control of RF instrumentation
• Conduct RF/microwave lab-based and in-the-field measurements and experimentation
• Facilitate measurements at outdoor test ranges, anechoic chamber, and EMC chambers
• Assess and validate state-of-the art RF systems and solutions from the Defense Industrial Base
• Assist with field-measurement setups and test plans
• Occasional travel per sponsor and program requirements

Additional responsibilities of higher level positions may include:

• Develop program management plans from the technical perspective and develop technical documents that satisfy stakeholder’s requirements and expectations
• Lead engineers in day to day tasking to accomplish programmatic deliverables. Develop and present project/program status reports
• Provide technical leadership within the laboratory in applied electromagnetics research
• Facilitate relationships across the DoD and the IC with a focus on moving technologies from fundamental research to applied solutions
• Perform the role of Trusted Agent to the government to assess and validate state-of-the art RF systems and solutions from the Defense Industrial Base

Required knowledge/skills include:

• Hands on experience with RF/microwave instrumentation: network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, antenna measurements, EMI/EMC measurements
• Hands on experience with in-the-lab and in-the-field troubleshooting of RF systems
• Familiarity with MATLAB and/or Python for instrument control and data analysis
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Excellent report writing capabilities
• RF/microwave engineering for ground, air and sea-based operations
• Electromagnetic simulation tools such as: CST Microwave Studio or REMCOM XFdtd

Preferred knowledge/skills include:

• Familiarity radar systems and hardware
• Familiarity with antenna design, simulation, and prototyping
• Familiarity with RF/microwave materials characterization measurement and instrumentation
• Active DoD SECRET (or higher) clearance
• A Master's degree or PhD

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 14+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 5+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 2+ years of relevant experience 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 Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site 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. 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 $105,900.00 - $231,000.00.

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.

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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