Software Research and Development Engineer

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 76,700 - 129,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plans

75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University seeks a motivated Software Engineer to join their Comprehensive Software Solutions Department. This role involves developing software solutions for sponsors and internal needs, requiring strong programming skills in languages such as C/C++, C#, Java, or Python.

Candidates should have a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science with at least 2 years of experience in software engineering. The position is fully on-site in State College, PA, and offers a competitive salary range of $76,700 to $129,500.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of relevant experience in software engineering.
• Eligibility for access to classified information at TS/SCI level is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop applications that fit project needs.
• Maintain version tracking and code documentation.
• Support field testing with troubleshooting of software systems.
• Test applications and write unit tests.

Skills

Proficiency in programming languages C/C++, C#, Java, or Python

Experience with version tracking tools such as Jira and Git

Creativity in problem‑solving

Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science

Degree in Software Engineering or Computer Science (preferred)

Job description

Position Overview

We are searching for a motivated and talented Software Engineer to join our Comprehensive Software Solutions (CSS) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) of Penn State. The role involves developing software solutions for ARL’s sponsors and internal needs.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with a team to develop applications that best fit project needs.
• Maintain version tracking and code documentation.
• Support field testing—including remote or in‑person troubleshooting of software systems.
• Rigorously test applications and write unit tests as required.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proficiency in programming languages C/C++, C#, Java, or Python.
• Experience with version tracking tools such as Jira and Git.
• Creativity in problem‑solving.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication and presentation skills.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Degree in Software Engineering or Computer Science.
• Embedded software development experience.
• Graphical user interface development experience.
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the TS/SCI level or higher (may require a government background investigation).

Minimum Education & Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science with 2+ years of relevant experience. For the Research and Development Engineer – Professional level, no prior experience is required.

Location & Travel

Fully on‑site in State College, PA. Periodic travel to remote locations may be required for testing. Remote and hybrid work approval is not guaranteed.

Security & Clearance

U.S. citizenship required. Successful completion of a background check, eligibility for a security clearance, and a pre‑employment drug screen are mandatory.

Salary & Benefits

Salary range: $76,700.00 – $129,500.00 (may vary with geographic differential). Penn State offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, paid time off, and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to providing employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you have an impairment preventing you from using our online application, please contact 814‑865‑1473.