Communications and Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 168,000 - 318,840; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition discount

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University invites applications for a Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to support research, development, analysis, and prototyping of resilient communications and signal processing systems for national security. The role emphasizes collaboration with DoD sponsors and field-tested approaches.

The position requires strong technical foundations in waveform design, detection/estimation, protocol development, and channel modeling, with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science.
• Experience with signal processing and communications systems.
• Ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and evaluate 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 channels.
• Perform system‑level analysis and performance assessments.
• Document findings and present results to sponsors.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across ARL and with sponsors.

Skills

Signal processing

Communications design

Python

MATLAB

Team collaboration

Clear written & oral communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C++

Job description

Application Instructions

Internal Applicants: Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or student) or current Penn State students (not previously employed at the university) must log on to Workday to complete the internal or student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

External Applicants: If you are not a current employee or student, click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Position Overview

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. The engineer 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.

You Will

• 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 multidisciplinary teams across ARL and with government sponsors

Additional Responsibilities for Higher‑Level Positions

• Lead technical tasks or project components
• Conduct feasibility studies and shape program direction
• Provide technical mentorship to junior staff or students
• Contribute 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

Location

This position will be fully on‑site located in State College, PA, Reston, VA or Annapolis Junction, MD. Options for a hybrid on‑site/work‑from‑home arrangement may exist based on project needs. This role may require periodic CONUS and OCONUS travel to support field tests, demonstrations, or sponsor engagements.

Minimum Education, Experience & Certifications

If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Signal Processing (ARL) – Principal Professional: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science, 19+ years of relevant experience. If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Signal Processing (ARL) – Senior Professional: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science, 14+ years of relevant experience. No certifications required.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $168,000.00 – $318,840.00. The range includes an adjustment based on required geographic work location.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, substantial paid time off, and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children.

Background Checks / Clearances

Employment with the University requires 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. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. U.S. citizenship is required.

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.