Software Engineer

Software Engineer

We are seeking a Software Engineer to join the Applied Communications team in 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

Additional responsibilities of higher-level position includes:

• Provide technical leadership on software engineering projects
• Mentor team members in technical skills, project management, and business development
• Present technical concepts and project updates to external stakeholders and collaborators

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
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills with structured approaches to solution development

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:

• Master's degree in Computer Science or related field
• Management of multiple concurrent projects and priorities
• Signal processing and algorithm development
• Cellular and/or wireless communications
• FPGA programming
• Database expertise: SQL, NoSQL, and/or Big Data systems
• MATLAB, Python, and/or Java
• CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices
• Translation of 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)

Your working location will be fully on-site in State College, PA. Questions about work flexibility should be discussed with the hiring manager during interviews.

This role requires 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) - Senior Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 14+ years of relevant experience
• Required Certifications: None

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• Required 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

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $121,704.00 - $231,000.00.

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.

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 View phone number on click.appcast.io.