Communications and Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, pleaselogin to Workday to complete thestudent application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants. ​POSITION SPECIFICS​We are searching for a technically strong Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to join the C3I Integrated Communications Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our division develops advanced communications technologies that support mission-critical needs across the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community. In this role, you will support research, development, analysis, and prototyping of resilient communications and signal processing systems that directly contribute to national security and sponsor mission success. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply.You Will:Develop, test, and evaluate advanced signal processing algorithms and communication techniquesModel and simulate communication system physical layer (PHY) protocols and waveformsPrototype communication capabilities using software defined radios (SDRs) and open source toolsContribute to waveform, modulation, and algorithm design for challenging channel environmentsPerform system level analysis, theoretical evaluation, and performance assessmentsDocument findings, prepare recommendations, and present results to sponsorsParticipate in field tests, demonstrations, and stakeholder engagementsCollaborate with multidisciplinary teams across ARL and with government sponsorsAdditional responsibilities for higher level positions include:Leading technical tasks or project componentsConducting feasibility studies and shaping program directionProviding technical mentorship to junior staff or studentsContributing to division level research strategies and initiativesRequired Skills / Experience areas include:Technical background in communications and signal processing (e.g., waveform design, detection/estimation, protocol development, or channel modeling)Simulation or analysis tools such as MATLAB or PythonDemonstrated ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary, team oriented environmentsAbility to express technical ideas clearly through written and oral communicationCurrent eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher, and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility if requiredPreferred Skills / Experience areas include:Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related fieldSDR development, laboratory or field testing, or data analysisProgramming experience in Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar languagesWireless, underwater, satellite, or optical communication systemsCommunications security, AI/ML for communications, or network protocol developmentYour working location will be fully on-site located in State College, PA, Reston, VA, or Annapolis Junction, MD, though options may exist for a hybrid on-site/work from home arrangement based on project needs. This role may require periodic CONUS and OCONUS travel to support field tests, demonstrations, or sponsor engagements.Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - 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 - Signal Processing (ARL) - 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 - Signal Processing (ARL) - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science No prior relevant work experience required Required Certifications: NoneARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intelligence Community (IC).For further information on ARL, visit: BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCESEmployment 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 & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $110,520.00 - $240,960.00. This salary range includes an adjustment based on required geographic work location.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structurePenn 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 STATISTICSPursuant 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 LAWPenn 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.Federal Contractors Labor Law PosterPA State Labor Law PosterPenn State PoliciesCopyright InformationHotlinesSummaryLocation: Annapolis Junction, Maryland; Reston, VAType: Full time