Autonomy and Data Fusion Engineer

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 109,300 - 164,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement plans

Paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time)

75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking an Autonomy and Data Fusion Engineer for its Advanced Phenomenology Department. This role encompasses research and development of innovative data fusion methods using various sensor technologies. Applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science along with programming skills in Python, C++, MATLAB, or Java. The position offers a salary range of $109,300 to $164,000 and a comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage and tuition discounts.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in field related to Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or Geospatial Sciences.
• Experience with spatio-temporal data fusion and machine learning applications.

Responsibilities

• Research and test novel collection methods and strategies using multiple networked assets.
• Assist in developing novel sensing and estimation strategies for data-driven decision support.
• Develop data architectures and pipelines for testing and evaluation.
• Design data fusion and estimation frameworks using heterogeneous sensor configurations.
• Collaborate with geospatial imagery analysts and data scientists.

Skills

Python

C++

MATLAB

Java

Spatio-temporal data fusion

Machine learning

Database architectures

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science

Job description

Position

Autonomy and Data Fusion Engineer in the Advanced Phenomenology Department of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The position is part of the Geospatial Image and Data Science Division.

Location

Fully on‑site in State College, PA. Remote and hybrid work are not guaranteed.

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, utilizing machine perception, autonomy, and data fusion.
• Develop data architectures and pipelines for testing and evaluation, document findings, and recommend system modifications.
• Design data fusion and estimation frameworks using heterogeneous sensor network configurations, establishing uncertainty measures.
• Collaborate with geospatial imagery analysts and/or UxV operators to understand and automate workflows and improve human processes for discovery and modeling of associations, trends, patterns, and system dynamics.
• Collaborate with computer vision algorithm developers and data scientists to integrate machine learning algorithms and incorporate physics‑based and mathematical models for validation and verification.
• Apply scientific methods and best practices across disciplines to advance data and geospatial sciences and develop analytics through systematic experimentation.
• Engage in research ranging from proof‑of‑concept through integrated production.

Required Skills and Experience

• Field directly applicable or highly related to Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or Geospatial Sciences.
• Proficient programming in Python, C++, MATLAB, or Java.
• Experience with spatio‑temporal data fusion, applicable database architectures, and machine learning applications.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working within DoD/IC Analysis or Operational environments.
• Active government security clearance.
• Master’s degree.

Minimum Education and Experience

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

Other Requirements

• Successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies.
• Ability to obtain a government security clearance; notification during the interview process if required.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Pre‑employment drug screening required.

Salary and Benefits

Salary range: $109,300 – $164,000 (may be impacted by geographic differential). Penn State provides a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time); and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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. Penn State is compliant with all federal, state, and local laws regarding employee rights.