Communications and Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; Ferguson Township (PA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 266,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive benefits package

Generous paid time off

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a proactive Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to support DoD and IC missions within the C3I Integrated Communications Department at ARL. You will develop and prototype resilient communications and signal processing systems, collaborating across ARL and with government sponsors, with opportunities for leadership and mentorship.

State College, PA on-site role with potential hybrid arrangements; travel may be required for field tests and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science; higher degree preferred.
• Experience with SDRs, field tests, and data analysis preferred.
• Must be eligible for security clearance or able to obtain clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and evaluate advanced signal processing algorithms and communication techniques.
• Model and simulate PHY protocols and waveforms.
• Prototype communication capabilities using SDRs and open source tools.
• Contribute to waveform, modulation, and algorithm design for challenging channel 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 multidisciplinary teams across ARL and with sponsors.

Skills

Waveform design

Detection/estimation

Protocol development

Channel modeling

Communication concepts

Written and oral communication

Education

Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in EE/CE/CS/Applied Math/Physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Position specifics

We are searching for a proactive, technically strong Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to join the C3I Integrated Communications Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our division develops advanced communications technologies that support mission‑critical needs across the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community. In this role, you will support research, development, analysis, and prototyping of resilient communications and signal processing systems that directly contribute to national security and sponsor mission success. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and evaluate advanced signal processing algorithms and communication techniques
• Model and simulate communication system physical layer (PHY) protocols and waveforms
• Prototype communication capabilities using software defined radios (SDRs) and open source tools
• Contribute to waveform, modulation, and algorithm design for challenging channel 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 multi disciplinary teams across ARL and with government sponsors

Additional responsibilities for higher‑level positions

• Leading technical tasks or project components
• Conducting feasibility studies and shaping program direction
• Providing technical mentorship to junior staff or students
• Contributing to division level research strategies and initiatives

Required Skills / Experience

• Technical background in communications and signal processing (e.g., waveform design, detection/estimation, protocol development, or channel modeling)
• Simulation or analysis tools such as MATLAB or Python
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary, team oriented environments
• Express technical ideas clearly through written and oral communication
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher, and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility if required

Preferred Skills / Experience

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related field
• SDR development, laboratory or field testing, or data analysis
• Programming experience in Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar languages
• Wireless, underwater, satellite, or optical communication systems
• Communications security, AI/ML for communications, or network protocol development

This position will be fully on‑site located in State College, PA, Reston, VA or Annapolis Junction, MD, though options may exist for a hybrid on‑site/work from home arrangement based on project needs. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This role may require periodic CONUS and OCONUS travel to support field tests, demonstrations, or sponsor engagements.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Principal Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 19+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

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

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 $140,004.00 - $265,704.00.

• 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.

Campus Security Crime Statistics

Per 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.

Penn State values

There’s a reason Penn State consistently ranks among the top one percent of the world’s universities. Across 24 campuses, our 100,000 students and 40,000 faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom – it’s the positive impact made on communities across the world. Our ideals stem from our origins as Pennsylvania’s sole land‑grant institution, which allow us to continue to bring positive impact to humanity through teaching, research, and engagement mission. And across the world is a community of Penn Staters – more than half a million strong – driven by that same spirit to serve our local and global communities. At Penn State, passion is met with collaboration in an environment that’s rooted in shared pride for the accomplishments of our fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Penn Staters cheer each other on to build a culture committed to service and engagement. Our University values represent our core ethical aspirations for all our daily activities and actions as students, faculty, staff, and volunteers at Penn State. Our values are as follows: Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.