Undersea Systems R&D Lead

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University seeks a Department Head for the Engineering Systems Research and Development Division of the Undersea Systems Office to lead the Deployables and Undersea Connectivity Department. The role focuses on advancing research capabilities, leading multidisciplinary teams, and aligning resources with priorities for national security missions.

This on-site position requires eligibility for a government security clearance and may involve travel to

Qualifications

• Managing programs, people, and meeting goals and objectives.
• Development of system test and verification plans.
• Underwater acoustics and communication methods.
• Fiber optic cabling deployment and data transmission basics.
• Electronic design and RF communication devices and techniques.
• Ability to express ideas clearly to drive understanding.
• Eligibility for access to classified information at Secret level or higher.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical leadership to advance research and engineering capabilities.
• Direct programs and multidisciplinary teams with external stakeholders.
• Coordinate resources with leadership, PMs, and PIs to align priorities.
• Lead personnel development, performance evaluations, and mentoring.
• Guide applied R&D to deliver innovative technical solutions for sponsors.
• Plan, staff, and execute programs aligned with goals and customer needs.
• Foster innovation and exploration of new technologies.

Skills

Program management

People management

Goal setting

Communication skills

Security clearance eligibility

Technical leadership

Education

Master's degree

PhD in a relevant field

Job description

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University seeks a Department Head for the Engineering Systems Research and Development Division of the Undersea Systems Office to lead the Deployables and Undersea Connectivity Department. The role focuses on advancing research capabilities, leading multidisciplinary teams, and aligning resources with priorities for national security missions.

This on-site position requires eligibility for a government security clearance and may involve travel to