Autonomy and Data Fusion Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 109,300 - 164,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement plans

75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is looking for an Autonomy and Data Fusion Engineer to join the Advanced Phenomenology Department at the Applied Research Laboratory. This role involves researching and testing novel collection methods, developing data architectures, and collaborating across disciplines in geospatial sciences, machine perception, and data fusion. Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science, at least 5 years of experience, and proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, MATLAB, or Java. Competitive salary range of $109,300.00 – $164,000.00 plus comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in a related field.
• Ability to obtain a government security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Research and test novel collection methods using networked assets.
• Assist in developing strategies for data-driven decision support.
• Collaborate to understand workflows and improve decision making.

Skills

Experience in fields related to Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or Geospatial Sciences

Proficiency in Python, C++, MATLAB, or Java

Experience with spatio-temporal data fusion and machine learning applications

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Master's degree (preferred)

Job description

Autonomy and Data Fusion Engineer – Advanced Phenomenology Department, Applied Research Laboratory

We are searching for an Autonomy and Data Fusion Engineer to join the Advanced Phenomenology Department of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This position is part of the Geospatial Image and Data Science Division and involves collaborative, multidisciplinary work in geospatial science, machine perception, autonomy, and data fusion.

Responsibilities

• Research and test novel collection methods and strategies using multiple networked assets, evaluate and optimize sensor deployment and autonomy in sea, ground, air, and space environments.
• Assist research efforts to develop novel sensing and estimation strategies that facilitate data‑driven decision support using state‑of‑the‑art tools in machine perception, autonomy, and data fusion.
• Develop data architectures and pipelines for test and evaluation, document findings, and recommend system modifications.
• Design data fusion and estimation frameworks for heterogeneous sensor network configurations while establishing uncertainty measures.
• Collaborate with geospatial imagery analysts and/or UxV operators to understand and automate workflows and improve human processes to advance discovery and modeling of associations, trends, patterns, and system dynamics.
• Collaborate with computer vision algorithm developers and data scientists to integrate machine learning algorithms, incorporating physics‑based and mathematical models for validation and verification.
• Apply scientific methods and best practices across multiple disciplines to advance data and geospatial sciences and develop data analytics through systematic experimentation.
• Engage in research efforts ranging from proof‑of‑concept through integrated production.

Required Skills / Experience

• Experience in a field directly applicable or highly related to Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or Geospatial Sciences.
• Proficiency in at least one programming language: Python, C++, MATLAB, or Java.
• Experience with spatio‑temporal data fusion, applicable database architectures, and machine learning applications.

Preferred Skills / Experience

• Experience working within DoD/IC analysis or operational environments.
• Active government security clearance.
• Master's degree.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Certifications

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science; 5+ years of relevant experience. No required certifications.

Background Checks / Clearances

Employment requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require the ability to obtain a government security clearance. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and will undergo a pre‑employment drug screen.

Salary & Benefits

Salary range: $109,300.00 – $164,000.00 (may be affected by geographic differential).

Penn State offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, and sick time); and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

Location

The position is fully on‑site in State College, PA.

EEO Statement

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 veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.