SD-WAN Solutions Research Computing Engineer

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 92,100 - 174,708; Full time

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking an innovative SD-WAN Research Computing Engineer to join the Cloud Technology Advancement Department within the CMS Division. You will design, develop, and implement next-generation SD-WAN solutions that support national security through network modernization and technology innovation.

This on-site role in State College, PA offers hybrid options on a project-dependent basis, with periodic travel to CONUS and international sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 6+ years of relevant experience.
• Active DoD Secret clearance required.
• DoD 8140/8570 IAT II baseline certification.
• Experience with DoD/IC security concepts and zero-trust architecture.

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 frameworks using Python, Ansible, and infrastructure-as-code tools.
• Deploy and test SD-WAN solutions in connected and Dark Cloud environments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition R&D to operational solutions.
• Document technical specifications, research findings, and architecture designs.
• Support solution deployments in classified environments.

Skills

SD-WAN design

Routing protocols (BGP/OSPF/EIGRP)

Network automation (Python/Ansible)

Zero-trust security concepts

DoD/IC security clearance

IAT baseline cert (Security+ / CE, GSE

Education

Bachelor's degree

6+ years of relevant experience

Tools

Cisco Viptela

Fortinet

Palo Alto Prisma

VMware VeloCloud

Juniper SRX

DISA APL-listed solutions

Job description

Position Overview

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.

Responsibility

• 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

• 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

• 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

• Active DoD TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI with Polygraph (highly preferred).
• 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.

Location

Fully on‑site in State College, PA. Hybrid options exist on a project‑dependent basis. Periodic travel with limited notice (potentially less than 3 days) to locations including Europe, Asia, San Diego, CA, and other CONUS locations.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Scientific Computing Systems Specialist (ARL) – Senior Professional: Bachelor’s degree and 6+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent).
• Scientific Computing Systems Specialist (ARL) – Advanced Professional: Bachelor’s degree and 3+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent).

Background Checks / Clearances

Employment requires successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in ARL drug testing, and comply with monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. U.S. citizenship is required.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range is $92,100.00 – $174,708.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible families.

Equal Employment Opportunity 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.