SD-WAN Solutions Research and Development Engineer
Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University
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Job summary
Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University in State College, PA, seeks an innovative SD-WAN Solutions Development Engineer to design, develop, and implement next-generation SD-WAN solutions for DoD and IC environments.
The role emphasizes hands-on network design, automation using Python/Ansible, security concepts including zero-trust, and the ability to operate in both connected and limited connectivity settings with potential travel.
Qualifications
- Hands‑on experience designing and implementing SD‑WAN solutions using hardware‑ or software‑based platforms (e.g., Cisco Viptela, Fortinet, Prisma, VeloCloud, Juniper).
- Strong understanding of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), overlays (VXLAN, GRE, IPsec), and WAN optimization.
- Experience with network automation and programmability using Python, Ansible, and APIs.
- Deep knowledge of DoD/IC security concepts including zero‑trust architectures, encryption, and segmentation.
- Active DoD Secret clearance (minimum requirement) and DoD 8140/8570 IAT II baseline.
Responsibilities
- Design and develop next-gen SD-WAN architectures for DoD/IC environments.
- Research, prototype, and advance SD-WAN tech including SASE and zero-trust.
- Implement automation frameworks using Python, Ansible, and IaC.
- Deploy and test in connected and disconnected (Dark Cloud) environments.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition R&D to operations.
- Document specifications, findings, and designs.
- Support deployments and troubleshooting in highly secure environments.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
We are searching for an innovative and technically skilled SD-WAN Solutions Development Engineer to join our Cloud Technology Advancement Department within the Cyber, Modeling and Simulation (CMS) Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our department advances cutting-edge networking solutions for DoD, 4th estate, and IC communities. In this role, you will design, develop, and implement next-generation Software Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) solutions that directly impact national security through network modernization and technology innovation.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
- Design and develop next-generation SD-WAN architectures and solutions for DoD and IC environments
- Research, prototype, and advance emerging SD-WAN technologies including SASE, zero-trust architectures, and cloud-integrated networking
- Implement network automation frameworks using Python, Ansible, and infrastructure-as-code tools
- Deploy and test SD-WAN solutions in both connected and internet-disconnected (Dark Cloud) environments
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition R&D innovations from concept through prototype to operational solutions
- Document technical specifications, research findings, and architecture designs
- Support solution deployments and troubleshooting in classified environments
- Lead technical architecture design, discovery, and validation for complex SD-WAN implementations
- Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on advanced networking concepts
- Take responsibility and accountability for program outcomes and research deliverables
- Present technical concepts and innovations to senior leadership including General Officers, SES, or Presidential appointees
- Drive strategic technical discussions supporting technology adoption and modernization initiatives
- Hands‑on experience designing and implementing SD‑WAN solutions using hardware‑based or software‑based platforms (e.g., Cisco Viptela, Fortinet, Palo Alto Prisma, VMware VeloCloud, Juniper Session Smart Router, or DISA APL‑listed solutions)
- Strong understanding of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), overlay technologies (VXLAN, GRE, IPsec), and WAN optimization
- Experience with network automation and programmability using scripting languages (Python, Ansible) and APIs
- Deep knowledge of DoD/IC security concepts including zero‑trust architectures, encryption, and secure network segmentation
- Active DoD Secret clearance (minimum requirement)
- DoD 8140/8570 IAT II baseline certification (Security+ce, GSEC, or SSCP)
- Active DoD TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI with Polygraph (highly preferred; clearance upgrades may be required based on program needs)
- Experience with Rapid Prototype and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) advancement in networking domain
- SASE architecture implementation and multi‑cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Dell enterprise switching (OS10, PowerSwitch) or Juniper platforms (SRX, MX Series, Junos OS)
- Software development experience for network automation and DevSecOps integration
- Network Function Virtualization (NFV), SDN controllers, and containerized networking (Kubernetes, service meshes)
- Industry certifications: CCNA/CCNP/CCIE, Fortinet NSE, Palo Alto PCNSE, Juniper JNCIS/JNCIP, VMware VCP‑NV, DoD 8140/8570 IAT III (CISSP/CASP), or vendor‑specific SD‑WAN certifications
- Publication record or patent portfolio in networking domain
- U.S. Military Veterans & U.S. Military Reservists
Your working location fully on‑site located in State College, PA, but options exist for hybrid of on‑site/work from home based on project‑dependent ability. This position will require periodic travel with limited notice (potentially less than 3 days) in support of solution deployments, testing, or troubleshooting to locations including Europe, Asia, San Diego CA, and other CONUS locations.
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
14+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications: None
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
5+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications: None
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
2+ years of relevant experience
Required 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 Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
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.
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $91,488.00 - $202,464.00.
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.
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.
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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