RF and Signal Processing Engineer

Job Title

We are seeking motivated and talented engineers to join our Strategic Systems Operation team in the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State.

This position will be working with senior technical staff to research, design, develop, integrate, and test advanced wireless RF communications systems.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

• Create algorithms and/or software design
• Develop C/C++ or equivalent code to interface with developed hardware and associated interfaces (SPI, I2C, etc)
• Integration of Software Defined Radio (SDR) hardware/software components as appropriate
• Evaluate/develop communication security protocols

Additional responsibilities of higher level positions include:

• Devise, plan, and lead work on extremely complex communications problems that impact the design success of current products or address broad design issues of future products of technologies
• Propose and lead new communications initiatives and guide programs of national significance
• As a recognized communications leader by sponsors and the technical community, present papers, lead symposia and chair committees

Experience with the following is required:

• Computer Networking
• Communications protocols
• OSI stack, UDP/TCP/IP
• Familiarity with wireless specifications such as cellular (4G/5G)/WiFi (802.11)

Preferred Experience includes:

• A Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science
• Software design
• Signal Processing
• FPGA development
• Develop C/C++ or equivalent code to interface with developed hardware and associated interfaces (SPI, I2C, etc)
• Integration of Software Defined Radio (SDR) hardware/software components
• Evaluate/develop communication security protocols
• MATLAB/LabVIEW modeling and simulation
• RF principles
• Embedded software/hardware
• Wireless/cyber security
• C-Language programming

This position can be located in State College, PA, Annapolis Junction, MD, or Reston, VA.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:

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

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - 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 - Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• No prior relevant work experience required
• Required Certifications: None

ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $76,700.00 - $164,000.00. THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL

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.