Software Engineer

## Position We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our Applied Communications team of 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. ## Required Skills/Experience - 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 and ability to clearly articulate complex technical concepts. - Ability to work independently and collaboratively in cross-functional teams. - Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities with attention to detail. - Demonstrated problem-solving skills with structured approaches to solution development. ## Preferred Skills/Experience - Master's degree in Computer Science or related field. - Managing multiple concurrent projects and priorities. - Signal processing and algorithm development. - Background in cellular and/or wireless communications. - FPGA programming. - Database expertise: SQL, NoSQL, and/or Big Data systems. - Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and/or Java. - Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices. - Translating 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).The work location is fully on-site in State College, PA. Questions about work flexibility should be discussed with the hiring manager during interviews. Periodic travel is required for field testing with small research teams. ## Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Intermediate Professional: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science; 2+ years of relevant experience. Required certifications: None. If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Professional: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science; no prior relevant work experience required. 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. ## Background Checks/Clearances Employment with the University requires successful completion of background checks 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. 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 & Benefits The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $92,100.00–$174,708.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid holidays, vacation and sick time, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.