Research and Development Engineer Intern

Penn State University; University Park (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University’s Applied Research Laboratory seeks a motivated Research and Development Engineer Intern to join the Mission Systems Department on-site in State College, PA. You will assist in modeling, requirements, and designs, while contributing to tests and prototype development for advanced systems.

The role emphasizes strong written and oral communication, collaboration with cross‑functional teams, and the ability to work in a security-conscious research setting.

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience presenting ideas in writing for clear audience understanding.
• Enrollment in an engineering or related program.

Responsibilities

• Assist in systems modeling and analysis.
• Support development of requirements, architecture definitions, and system designs.
• Contribute to system testing and prototype development.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams in a DoD‑focused environment.

Skills

Written and oral communication

Clear written communication

Education

Pursuing a degree in engineering or related field

Job description

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

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

We are searching for a highly motivated, self-starting Research and Development Engineer Intern to join our Mission Systems (MS) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The MS Department mission is to serve as the nexus between technology and operations, leading multidisciplinary initiatives that transform operational capabilities. Through strong partnerships and trusted stakeholder relationships, we facilitate the delivery of integrated solutions to complex, real-world challenges.

As an R&D Intern, you will support complex system development efforts that leverage cutting‑edge technologies in areas such as hypersonic systems, unmanned platforms, advanced manufacturing, and supply‑chain logistics.

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

You will:

• Perform systems modeling and analysis
• Develop requirements, architecture definitions, and system designs
• Develop and perform system tests
• Develop prototype systems including mechanical, electrical, and/or software subsystems

Required skills/experience areas include:

• Ability to express yourself in written and oral communication to others in order to provide understanding
• Past success in providing ideas in written form for clear comprehension to an audience

Preferred skills/experience areas include:

• Hands-on experience with design, simulation, and test.
• Model Based Systems Engineering training and experience
• Familiarity with systems engineering fundamentals
• SECRET Clearance (or ability to obtain a clearance)

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA.

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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