Secure Systems R&D Engineer: Cybersecurity Innovator

The Pennsylvania State University; United States; Hybrid; USD 111,000 - 241,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University’s Applied Research Laboratory seeks a self-motivated Secure Systems Research and Development Engineer to advance secure system design and hardening across DoD-oriented projects in cyberspace operations. The role blends software engineering, cyber defense, and system administration for sponsor-driven tasks.

Responsibilities include leading technical discussions with sponsors, guiding junior engineers, developing proposals, and coordinating security testing.

Qualifications

• Experience applying software or systems engineering principles.
• Embedded or cloud system development and secure configuration.
• Networking fundamentals and Windows/UNIX administration.
• Proficient in C, Java, and Python programming languages.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity testing tools and penetration testing methods.
• Ability to clearly present technical information to senior leaders.
• Active government security clearance at SECRET level.

Responsibilities

• Research secure system design, implementation, and hardening.
• Leverage software engineering, system administration, and cybersecurity expertise.
• Maintain sponsor relationships through on-site technical discussions and presentations.
• Improve processes for technical controls, architecture, and security testing.
• Apply project management methods to lead tasks or projects.
• Provide guidance to junior R&D engineers for growth.
• Identify grant/funding opportunities and influence customer decisions.
• Develop proposals and presentations to customers and sponsors.
• Mentor staff in technical, project, and business development skills.

Skills

Software engineering principles

Embedded or cloud development

Networking fundamentals

Windows/UNIX administration

C, Java, Python

Cybersecurity testing tools

Technical communication

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

Ansible

Job description

The Pennsylvania State University’s Applied Research Laboratory seeks a self-motivated Secure Systems Research and Development Engineer to advance secure system design and hardening across DoD-oriented projects in cyberspace operations. The role blends software engineering, cyber defense, and system administration for sponsor-driven tasks.

Responsibilities include leading technical discussions with sponsors, guiding junior engineers, developing proposals, and coordinating security testing.