Quantum & Multiphysics Research & Development Engineer

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); Hybrid; USD 92,100 - 200,808; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Excellent benefits package

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking an analytical R&D Engineer to join the Quantum Research Department. You will perform electromagnetic and multi-physics simulations, review emerging sensor technologies, and contribute to assessments supporting national security projects.

Expect to work on diverse physics topics, with opportunities for hands-on optics work and scripting for data visualization.

Qualifications

• Experience with numerical simulation software or the ability to quickly learn such tools.
• Strong understanding of electromagnetics.
• Proven ability to write white papers or technical reports.
• Ability to perform broad research and summarize findings.

Responsibilities

• Use numerical simulation software (primarily CST) for simulations, often electromagnetic and sometimes multi-physics.
• Perform assessment work on topics of interest to government sponsors, including literature reviews.
• Work on topics spanning different physics domains, including occasional X-ray physics depending on sponsor needs.
• Occasionally perform hands-on experimental work in optics.
• Write scripts to generate plots and process data; prepare reports and slides summarizing results.

Skills

Numerical simulation software

Electromagnetics

Scientific writing

Literature review

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science

Tools

CST

MATLAB

Python

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for an analytical and detail-oriented Research and Development Engineer to join the Quantum Research Department within the Multimodal Spectrum and Sensing Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our department advances cutting-edge sensing technologies in both the quantum and classical regimes in order to support critical national security missions. This role will perform numerical simulations (primarily electromagnetic but also multi-physics modeling) while conducting technical assessments and literature reviews of emerging classical and quantum sensor technologies to inform strategic decision-making for our government sponsors.

You will:

• Utilize numerical simulation software (mainly CST) to perform simulations. These simulations will mostly be electromagnetic in nature but sometimes multi-physics such as electromagnetic + thermal + fluid flow. The simulations are mostly in the realm of sensors and devices
• Perform assessment work on various topics of interest to our government sponsors in the realm of sensors. This will include literature analysis and review of current market options
• Work on a wider variety of topics that span different domains of physics, sometimes more niche (such as X-ray physics) depending on sponsor interests
• Sometimes perform hands‑on experimental work in optics
• Write script to generate plots and process data
• Write reports or create slides summarizing results

Required Skills/Experience areas include:

• Numerical simulation software, or at the very least, possess the capability and drive to learn this software
• Electromagnetics
• Past success in writing white papers or reports
• Ability to perform broad research on a topic of interest and summarize findings

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

• Hands on experimentation experience
• Knowledge of scripting languages such as MATLAB or Python
• 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

Your working location will be fully on‑site located in State College, PA but options exist for hybrid of on‑site/work from home based on project‑dependent ability. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as R&D Engineer - Astronomical Sciences, Astronomy, and Astrophysics (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 5+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as R&D Engineer - Astronomical Sciences, Astronomy, and Astrophysics (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at

www.arl.psu.edu

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 $92,100.00 - $200,808.00. 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. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to 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.

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