Head of Embedded Software for Undersea Systems

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University’s Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) seeks a Department Head for the Embedded Software division to lead an experienced team in designing, developing, and testing software and firmware for undersea systems. The role emphasizes leadership, strategic direction, and rigorous engineering practices.

Responsibilities include mentoring staff, guiding architecture and development, and coordinating with leadership to align resources with program goals while maintaining

Qualifications

• Experience managing projects, people, and technical teams with measurable outcomes.
• Proven ability to lead technical directions in complex engineering systems.
• Experience mentoring and developing technical personnel.
• Design and development of embedded real-time, multi-threaded software or firmware.
• Experience with C/C++ and modern embedded development tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain a high-performing workforce through coaching, mentorship, succession planning, talent development, and employee engagement.
• Establish the technical vision and strategic direction for the department, ensuring capabilities, resources, and investments align with objectives.
• Direct and oversee the software engineering function in developing, releasing, and maintaining software and firmware applications.
• Guide architecture, design, development, integration, and testing of embedded software and firmware solutions for autonomous and undersea systems.
• Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and adherence to best practices.
• Establish policies and standards producing high-quality products and development methodologies.
• Coordinate with leadership to prioritize work, allocate resources, and support current and future programs.
• Lead major research and development initiatives and shape the department's long-term portfolio.
• Lead strategic initiatives through customer engagement and proposal development.

Skills

Project management

People management

Technical leadership

Embedded software

C/C++

Communication skills

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree in software/computer/electrical engineering or computer science

Advanced degree (preferred)

Tools

Embedded development tools

FPGA/CPLD firmware

Job description

The Pennsylvania State University’s Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) seeks a Department Head for the Embedded Software division to lead an experienced team in designing, developing, and testing software and firmware for undersea systems. The role emphasizes leadership, strategic direction, and rigorous engineering practices.

Responsibilities include mentoring staff, guiding architecture and development, and coordinating with leadership to align resources with program goals while maintaining