Research and Development Systems Engineer

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); Hybrid; USD 86,300 - 164,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive health coverage

Robust retirement plans

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking a Systems Engineer to join their Mission Systems Department. This role involves defining and developing system architectures for complex defense systems, applying systems engineering principles and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. The position offers the potential for hybrid work arrangements and requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science.

The salary range for this position is $86,300 to $164,000, along with a competitive benefits package that includes a 75% tuition discount for employees and their families.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience designing and developing complex systems.
• Past success with systems engineering approaches.
• Ability to work across engineering disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Define and develop system architectures for defense systems.
• Apply modular design to decompose complex systems.
• Create and maintain system architecture documentation.

Skills

Systems engineering principles

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Electrical Engineering

Modular design

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

MATLAB

Simulink

Requirements management tools (DOORS, Jama)

Job description

Position Specifics

We are searching for a highly motivated and self-starting Systems Engineer to join our Mission Systems (MS) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State and serve as a Systems Engineer and System Architect. 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.

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

About ARL

ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). For further information on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu.

Job Responsibilities

• Define and develop system architectures for complex, multi-domain defense systems using systems engineering principles
• Apply modular design approaches to decompose complex systems into manageable, interoperable subsystems and components
• Develop architectural frameworks, interface definitions, and integration strategies
• Lead requirements analysis, functional decomposition, and allocation across system hierarchies
• Conduct trade studies and alternatives analysis to evaluate architectural approaches
• Create and maintain system architecture documentation including block diagrams, interface control documents, and design specifications
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure architectural integrity throughout system development
• Support verification and validation planning to ensure system architecture meets operational requirements
• Communicate architectural concepts and technical recommendations to stakeholders and project sponsors

Additional Responsibilities (Higher-level Positions)

• Indirect supervision and mentorship of other engineers
• Monitoring and tracking of funding and budgets
• Work independently on complex assignments, review progress, and evaluate results
• Lead communications with external audiences for scheduling, coordination, and business purposes
• Represent the organization in technical exchanges and program reviews

Required Skills / Experience

• Technical background in Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related engineering discipline
• 5+ years of experience designing and developing complex systems
• Past success with systems engineering approaches to system architecture and modular design
• System decomposition, functional analysis, and interface management
• System architectures for hardware/software integrated systems (not IT network or enterprise architecture)
• Understanding of systems engineering principles, processes, and lifecycle management
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work across engineering disciplines
• Ability to express ideas successfully to drive understanding
• Past success in writing white papers or report

Preferred Skills / Experience

• Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) training and experience with tools such as Cameo, MagicDraw, or similar
• Department of Defense or Navy systems development programs
• Defense system architectures and standards (e.g., DoDAF, UAF, MODAF)
• Digital engineering practices and tools
• Requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, Jama, Innoslate)
• Open systems architectures and modular open systems approach (MOSA)
• MATLAB, Simulink, or other system modeling and simulation tools
• Previous success in a multidisciplinary, team-oriented culture
• 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

Location & Work Arrangement

Your working location will be on-site in State College, PA. Options exist for a hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project‑dependent ability. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Certifications

If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor’s Degree – Engineering or Science, 5+ years of relevant experience. If filled as Research and Development Engineer – Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor’s Degree – Engineering or Science, 2+ years of relevant experience. No required certifications.

Background Checks & Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 – $164,000.00. The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.

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.

EEO Statement

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.