Software Engineer

Penn State University; University Park (IL); On-site; USD 92,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a Software Engineer for its Applied Research Laboratory (ARL). You will develop software for cutting‑edge communications research addressing national security challenges and support diverse platforms.

Expect work in Linux environments and modern DevOps tooling within a DoD-aligned program. Position is on-site at State College, PA, with opportunities to explore FPGA, signal processing, and UI/UX aspects as needed.

Qualifications

• 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 and software architecture expertise.
• Advanced Linux environment proficiency and experience with modern development tools.

Responsibilities

• 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 underwater, terrestrial, aerial, and space 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.

Skills

Data structures

Algorithms

Networking

Distributed systems

Memory management

Security

Databases

C++

C

OOP principles

Linux

GitLab

JIRA

Confluence

Docker

Kubernetes

UI/UX development

Communication

Team collaboration

Troubleshooting

Python

Education

Bachelor’s Degree - Engineering or Science

Master’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

GitLab

JIRA

Confluence

Bamboo

Artifactory

Bitbucket

SonarQube

AWS

CMake

GDB

Vim

MATLAB

Python

Java

JavaScript

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our Applied Communications team of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. 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)

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

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 Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Professional, this position requires:Bachelor’s Degree - Engineering or ScienceNo prior relevant work experience requiredRequired 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.

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. 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, 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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