Head of Embedded Systems - Real-Time & Edge Innovation

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 161,004 - 298,800; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, vision

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Tuition discount

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University seeks a Department Head for the Embedded Systems Department (ESD) within MMSO. The role leads strategic and technical directions for embedded hardware/software, with emphasis on real-time control, edge analytics, and mission-focused system integration.

Based on-site in State College, PA, with periodic travel to remote locations, you will build partnerships with sponsors and defense contractors, drive proposals, and oversee budgets and

Qualifications

• Embedded hardware architectures and RTOS familiarity required.
• Experience with hardware‑in‑the‑loop and software‑in‑the‑loop testing.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary embedded systems teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Embedded Systems Department providing strategic direction and oversight.
• Build partnerships with sponsors, defense contractors, and government labs to transition capabilities.
• Direct research projects, staffing, budgeting, and deliverables with a focus on DoD platforms.

Skills

Embedded hardware

RTOS/bare-metal

HW/SW co-design

Edge computing

Data acquisition

Control systems

Cyber-resilient design

Testing methodologies

System integration

DoD systems challenges

SWaP considerations

Technical writing

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

None

Job description

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University seeks a Department Head for the Embedded Systems Department (ESD) within MMSO. The role leads strategic and technical directions for embedded hardware/software, with emphasis on real-time control, edge analytics, and mission-focused system integration.

Based on-site in State College, PA, with periodic travel to remote locations, you will build partnerships with sponsors and defense contractors, drive proposals, and oversee budgets and