SD-WAN Solutions Research Computing Engineer

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 92,100 - 174,708; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University seeks an innovative SD-WAN Research Computing Engineer to design, implement, and test next-generation SD-WAN solutions for DoD/IC environments. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition research from concept to operational solutions and document designs for classified deployments.

Ideal candidates bring experience with SD-WAN technologies, routing protocols, and network automation using Python and Ansible.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of relevant experience or equivalent education
• Active DoD Secret clearance required
• DoD 8140/8570 IAT II baseline certification (Security+ce, GSEC, or SSCP)

Responsibilities

• Design and develop next-generation SD-WAN architectures for DoD/IC environments
• Research, prototype, and advance SD-WAN technologies including SASE and zero-trust
• Implement network automation using Python, Ansible, and IaC tools
• Deploy and test SD-WAN solutions in connected and Dark Cloud environments
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition R&D from concept to operations
• Document specifications, findings, and designs
• Support deployments and troubleshooting in classified environments
• Lead architecture design and mentorship at higher levels
• Present concepts to senior leadership and drive technology modernization

Skills

SD-WAN design

Networking architectures

Python automation

DoD/IC security

Zero-trust

Routing protocols

Encryption security

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Python

Ansible

Terraform

Cisco Viptela

Job description

We are searching for an innovative and technically skilled SD-WAN Research Computing 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.

You will:

• 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

Additional responsibilities for higher level positions include:

• 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

Required skills/experience areas include:

• 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)

Preferred skills/experience areas include:

• 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.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Scientific Computing Systems Specialist (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None

If filled as Scientific Computing Systems Specialist (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. 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 Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.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 $92,100.00 - $174,708.00.

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.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

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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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