Software Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; Ferguson Township (PA); On-site; USD 92,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University, through its Applied Research Laboratory (ARL), is seeking a Software Engineer to join the Applied Communications team. You will develop and integrate advanced algorithms for DoD-related research, designing system-level software, and testing across multi-domain platforms.

Join a collaborative team addressing critical national security challenges while expanding your skills into adjacent technology areas.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or science with at least two years of relevant experience.
• Strong CS fundamentals: data structures, algorithms, networking, distributed systems, memory management, security, databases, and hardware integration.
• Proficiency in C++ and C with strong OO principles.
• Experience with Linux and modern dev tools (Git/GitLab/Jira/Confluence/Bamboo/Artifactory/Bitbucket/SonarQube).
• Experience with Docker and Kubernetes for containerized environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop software solutions for advanced research in communications systems.
• Design applications, libraries, interfaces, and device drivers for system-level requirements.
• Implement and test algorithms across underwater, terrestrial, aerial, and space platforms.
• Create signal processing software for advanced communication systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve national security challenges.
• Expand skills into new and adjacent technology areas.

Skills

C++/C programming

Data structures & algorithms

Distributed systems

High-performance computing

Linux environment

Git/GitLab/Jira/Confluence

Docker & Kubernetes

Signal processing basics

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

GitLab

Git

JIRA

Confluence

Bamboo

Artifactory

Bitbucket

SonarQube

MATLAB

Python

Java

AWS

CMake

GDB

Vim

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our Applied Communications team of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at PennState. In this role, you'll implement and integrate advanced algorithms to support cutting‑edge research applications addressing critical Department of Defense challenges. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes applications from transitioning military members.

You Will:

• Develop software solutions for cutting‑edge research in communications systems
• Design applications, libraries, interfaces, and device drivers for diverse system‑level requirements
• Implement and test algorithms across multiple domains: underwater, terrestrial, aerial, and space‑based platforms
• Create signal processing software for advanced communication systems
• Apply your technical expertise to solve complex national security challenges
• Expand your skills into new and adjacent technology areas

Required Skills/Experience areas include:

• Strong computer science fundamentals: data structures, algorithms, networking, distributed systems, memory management, security, databases, and hardware integration
• Proficiency in C++ and C with strong object‑oriented programming principles
• High‑performance algorithm design
• Software architecture and infrastructure design expertise
• Advanced Linux environment proficiency
• Modern development tools: Git, GitLab, Atlassian suite (JIRA, Confluence, Bamboo, Artifactory, BitBucket, SonarQube)
• Containerization and orchestration experience with Docker and Kubernetes
• Understanding of mobile app and front‑end UI/UX development
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to clearly articulate complex technical concepts
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in cross‑functional teams
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities with exceptional attention to detail
• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills with structured approaches to solution development

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

• Master's degree in Computer Science or related field
• Managing multiple concurrent projects and priorities
• Signal processing and algorithm development
• Background in cellular and/or wireless communications
• FPGA programming
• Database expertise: SQL, NoSQL, and/or Big Data systems
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and/or Java
• Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices
• Translating business requirements into technical specifications
• ATAK or WinTAK plug‑in development experience
• Cyber compliance policies and implementation requirements
• Offline storage, threading, and performance optimization
• Additional software languages (Rust, Bash, JavaScript, HTML, CSS)
• Software libraries (Google Protocol Buffers, ZeroMQ, FastAPI, pytest, React, Tailwind)
• Software tools (AWS, Vim, CMake, GDB)

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science No prior relevant work experience required Required Certifications: None

You work location will be fully On‑site in State College, PA. Questions about work flexibility should be discussed with the hiring manager during interviews. Periodic travel required for field testing with small research teams.

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. Salary Structure - Information on PennState's salary structure. PennState 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. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

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, PennState 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

PennState 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.

Our values are as follows; Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community.

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