R&D Engineer: Software Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 111,000 - 241,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive benefits package

Paid time off

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University’s Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) in Reston, VA seeks analytical software engineers to join the Strategic Systems Operation Division. The role focuses on software implementation, testing, and productization, with opportunities for limited hybrid work and frequent travel to sponsor locations and other sites.

Applicants should have proficiency in modern languages (Python, C++, Java, or Rust), experience across full development lifecycle, and familiarity with

Qualifications

• Proficiency in one or more modern programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, or Rust.
• Ability to design, implement, and maintain high-quality, scalable software solutions across the full development lifecycle.
• Strong understanding of software development principles, including object‑oriented design, modular architecture, and version control.
• Experience developing, testing, and maintaining software in Linux and/or Windows environments.
• Working knowledge of modern development tools (Git, CI/CD pipelines, automated testing frameworks).
• Knowledge of data structures, algorithms, and performance optimization.
• Experience with cloud platforms, distributed systems, or container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Ability to produce clear, maintainable, and well‑documented code.
• Systematic troubleshooting of operating systems and input‑output debugging.
• Understanding of the network protocol stack.

Responsibilities

• Apply your expertise in software to contribute to programs of national or international impact by identifying emerging challenges, research trends, and future opportunities
• Ensure technical excellence and on-time completion of all project tasks
• Develop and deliver clear updates on program status to Fleet-level personnel at both individual and community meetings
• Interact and collaborate regularly with the engineering team, principal investigator, sponsors, and other stakeholders
• Embrace ARL's mission to discover, demonstrate, transition, and educate while contributing as a key member of a multi‑disciplinary engineering team

Skills

Python

C++

Java

Rust

Linux

Windows

Git

CI/CD

Docker

Kubernetes

Data structures

Algorithms

Performance optimization

Education

Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

Git

CI/CD

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Your working location will be fully on-site in Reston, VA, but options exist for limited hybrid of on-site/work from home, based on project-dependent ability. This role requires frequent travel to sponsor locations in the Beltway area and to associate contractor and second party locations within and outside the continental United States. Trip lengths may be up to 2 weeks in duration.

We are searching for analytical software engineers to join the Strategic Systems Operation Division within the Information Advantage Office at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will focus on software implementation, test, and productization.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You Will:

• Apply your expertise in software to contribute to programs of national or international impact by identifying emerging challenges, research trends, and future opportunities
• Ensure technical excellence and on-time completion of all project tasks
• Develop and deliver clear updates on program status to Fleet-level personnel at both individual and community meetings
• Interact and collaborate regularly with the engineering team, principal investigator, sponsors, and other stakeholders
• Embrace ARL's mission to discover, demonstrate, transition, and educate while contributing as a key member of a multi‑disciplinary engineering team

Required Skills/Experience areas include:

• Proficiency in one or more modern programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, or Rust
• Ability to design, implement, and maintain high-quality, scalable software solutions across the full development lifecycle
• Strong understanding of software development principles, including object‑oriented design, modular architecture, and version control
• Experience developing, testing, and maintaining software in Linux and/or Windows environments
• Working knowledge of modern development tools (Git, CI/CD pipelines, automated testing frameworks)
• Knowledge of data structures, algorithms, and performance optimization
• Experience with cloud platforms, distributed systems, or container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Ability to produce clear, maintainable, and well‑documented code
• Systematic troubleshooting of operating systems and input‑output debugging
• Understanding of the network protocol stack

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

• Prior success collaborating with product owners, researchers, system engineers, and other stakeholders to translate requirements into well‑architected technical designs
• Success in environments where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective
• Demonstrated capacity to balance detail‑oriented thinking while maintaining the ability to see the "big picture"
• Demonstrated experience supporting transitional efforts
• 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 to the TS/SCI level
• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Computer Engineering or Computer Science

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as R&D Engineer - Software (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None If filled as R&D Engineer - Software (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None If filled as R&D Engineer - Software (ARL) - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or ScienceNo prior relevant work experience requiredRequired Certifications:None

ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website atwww.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 $110,520.00 - $240,960.00. This salary range includes an adjustment based on required geographic work location.

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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