Embedded Software Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer
We are searching for a motivated and technically strong Embedded Software Engineer to join our Embedded Software Department within the Guidance and Control Technologies Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. This position supports the development of advanced autonomous undersea systems and contributes directly to national defense research initiatives.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
Design, implement, integrate, and test embedded software supporting autonomous vehicle guidance and control, including sensor monitoring, actuator and motor control, and algorithms for signal processing, detection, classification, tracking, and decision-making
Develop and integrate autonomy-related capabilities such as sensor fusion, perception, and embedded signal-processing pipelines
Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team to integrate complete embedded software systems and support hardware-in-the-loop testing and bench-level validation
Support occasional travel to remote test locations as part of a small engineering and research team
Writing software for an embedded system
Proficiency in C or C++ for embedded environments
Microcontroller programming and low-level embedded development
Linux experience
Scripting with Python or MATLAB
ROS 2, MOOS-IvP, JAUS-based middleware)
Use of AI- or LLM-assisted workflows to improve software development efficiency, code quality, or documentation
Agile development methods and toolsets such as Atlassian
Unit testing frameworks
This position will be fully on-site in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Professional, this position requires:

Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
No prior relevant work experience required
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 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.
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. 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.