Engineering contractor electronics systems

We are searching for highly motivated Systems Engineers to join our Systems Engineering Department in the Undersea Systems Office at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will support the development of complex physical undersea systems, including advanced vehicles, sensors, and integrated hardware/software technologies for undersea applications. This is not an IT, cloud, or enterprise systems position. This role focuses on traditional systems engineering for defense hardware, spanning concept development, system architecture, subsystem integration, test, and transition to fielded military systems. This department's focus is on tailoring and on applying rigor using the systems engineering process. You will have the opportunity to contribute heavily to physical systems development, from conceptual definition into design, test, then transition into production.
USO designs, develops, validates, and maintains a suite of large-scale undersea warfare models and simulations used by technology developers, analysts, the Navy, and its allies. We serve as a research center of excellence in undersea weapons, unmanned undersea vehicles, and advanced sonars. We support our national security and undersea warfare sponsors through the development and demonstration of science and technology with the expertise, tools, and processes to take concepts from the early developmental phase through transition to industry and the fleet.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
Perform analysis of alternatives and develop system concepts for hardware‑centric undersea platforms and payloads
Conduct system and requirements decomposition, interface definition, and integration planning
Support model-based systems engineering (MBSE), system modeling, and hardware/software integration
Develop verification and validation strategies, test plans, and test procedures for physical prototypes and fielded systems
Participate in and support lab, dockside, and at-sea test events
Collaborate regularly with engineering teams, program sponsors, Navy partners, and program management
Identify risks, develop mitigation strategies, and support lifecycle decision-making
Organize and direct a multi-disciplinary and diverse engineering team
Plan and direct research projects that have substantial impact that extends knowledge and understanding
guide programs of national or international significance; Applying systems engineering to complex physical systems, preferably in defense, aerospace, maritime, or robotics domains
Past success in writing white papers or reports
Past success in a lead role, organizing, managing, and directing, multi-disciplinary teams, while contributing and assisting in project management
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Computer, Systems Engineering or related engineering discipline.
Hardware integration, prototype testing, or system-level test events
Working knowledge of DoD acquisition, especially Department of the Navy systems engineering processes
Exposure to environmental qualification, hardware-in-the-loop testing, or embedded system integration
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as R&D Engineer - Systems (ARL) - Principal Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 19+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None
If filled as R&D Engineer - Systems (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 5+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None
If filled as R&D Engineer - Systems (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 14+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None
Employment 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. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. S. citizen to apply.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

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.
Pursuant 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.
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.
Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. One Community.