R&D Engineer Intern

Penn State University; Key West (FL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University seeks an R&D Engineer Intern for the Information Sciences Division, MLOps Department at ARL. The role is on-site in Key West, FL, for Summer 2027, supporting AI/ML, data analytics, GIS, and cybersecurity related initiatives within a government setting.

Candidates should be working toward a technical bachelor’s degree and possess programming skills. Responsibilities include assisting with development, testing, and integration of new technologies, and documenting results for

Qualifications

• Undergraduate student in an engineering or technical field.
• Interest in AI/ML, data analysis, and security-related applications.
• Ability to work independently and with a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Support research and development activities in data analysis and software integration.
• Assist in testing and evaluating emerging technologies in an operational government environment.
• Document technical activities and results; communicate findings to team.

Skills

Python

Java

C++

Data analysis

ML/AI interest

GIS

Systems integration

Security concepts

Education

B.S. in Engineering

B.S. in Computer Science/Data Science/Information Science

Tools

GIS software

Relational databases

Job description

Job Description And Position Requirements

R&D Engineer Intern

Job Description and Position Requirements

We are searching for a motivated undergraduate student to join the Information Sciences Division, MLOps Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This position will be located at a government facility in Key West, Florida, during the Summer of 2027. The selected students will support research and development activities focused on applying data analysis, information science, software, and security technologies to real-world government applications. The intern will work alongside engineers, researchers, and government personnel to support the development, integration, testing, and evaluation of emerging technologies in an operational environment.

Typical focus areas include:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
• Data analytics, data mining, and visualization
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial data analysis
• Relational and network analysis tools
• Software development, integration, and testing
• Information and cybersecurity, both in theory and practice

Students majoring in the following fields are encouraged to apply:

• B.S. in an engineering discipline
• B.S. in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Science, or a related technical discipline

Interest Skills/Experience areas include:

• Experience with or interest in programming and scripting languages such as Python, Java, C++, or similar languages
• Familiarity with data analysis, data visualization, or data-processing techniques and tools
• Interest in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or data-driven applications
• Familiarity with GIS, geospatial technologies, relational databases, or network analysis tools
• Understanding of basic software development, systems integration, or cybersecurity concepts
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an ability to troubleshoot technical challenges
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary technical team
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document technical activities and results
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher is preferred. You may also be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

You will work up to 40 hours/week over the summer. This is a paid internship opportunity, and location will be:

• Fully on-site located in Key West, FL.

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.

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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