R&D Software Engineer — National Security Systems

Penn State; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 266,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Job summary

Penn State University’s ARL unit seeks analytical software engineers to join the Strategic Systems Operation Division. The role focuses on software implementation, testing, and productization for projects with national or international impact.

Candidates should have strong programming experience (Python, C++, Java, or Rust) and familiarity with Linux/Windows, Git, and CI/CD. Occasional travel to sponsor sites and a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team environment are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or science required.
• 19+ years of relevant experience for Principal Professional track or 14+ for Senior Professional track.

Responsibilities

• Apply your expertise in software to contribute to programs of national or international impact.
• Ensure technical excellence and on-time completion of all project tasks.
• Develop and deliver clear updates on program status to Fleet-level personnel at meetings.
• Interact and collaborate with the engineering team, sponsors, and stakeholders.
• Embrace ARL’s mission to discover, demonstrate, transition, and educate as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Skills

Python

C++

Java

Rust

Linux

Windows

Git

CI/CD

Data structures

Algorithms

OO design

Networking basics

Testing frameworks

Code quality

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

Penn State University’s ARL unit seeks analytical software engineers to join the Strategic Systems Operation Division. The role focuses on software implementation, testing, and productization for projects with national or international impact.

Candidates should have strong programming experience (Python, C++, Java, or Rust) and familiarity with Linux/Windows, Git, and CI/CD. Occasional travel to sponsor sites and a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team environment are required.