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POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for experienced, motivated, and driven engineers of multiple disciplines to join our Systems Engineering Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. ARL’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 Intel Community (IC). This department's focus is on tailoring and on applying rigor using the systems engineering process in order to support realization of systems that advance technologies within the undersea systems domain. You will have the opportunity to contribute heavily to undersea systems development, from conceptual definition into design, test, then transition into production of fielded systems.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
Develop complex systems by applying best practices in customer needs analysis, requirements development, systems architecture and concept development, analysis of alternatives, system and requirements decomposition, detailed design processes, systems and process modeling, systems integration and test, verification planning, and execution
Collaborate with Systems Engineering and Subsystem Design Teams to learn the design and operation of our undersea systems
Tailor systems engineering processes and techniques to a wide range of technology development activities that span the development life-cycle from early technology innovation to formal acquisition
Interact and collaborate regularly with the engineering team, program management, program sponsors, and other stakeholders
Resolve or assist in the resolution of conflicts and the mitigation of risks within programs
Additional responsibilities for higher level positions includes:
Organize and direct a multi-disciplinary, strong, and diverse engineering team
Provide technical leadership within the division programs
Plan and direct research projects that have substantial impact that extends knowledge and understanding
Propose and lead new initiatives; guide programs of national or international significance; identify future problems, research trends, and opportunities
Required skills/experience areas include:
Experience in application of systems engineering discipline to projects that range in complexity and in technological maturity
Inquisitive, proactive, and interested in learning new tools, techniques, and problem domains
Previous success with collaborations in a diverse, multi-disciplinary, cross-functional team-oriented culture
Demonstrated successes in presenting in front of teams or groups, or creating documentation/reports, to convey information to drive understanding, action, or decision
(Level dependent) Success in a lead role, organizing, managing, and directing, multi-disciplinary teams, while contributing and assisting in project management
(Level dependent) Success while leading or contributing to technical proposals and white papers
Preferred skills/experience areas include:
Experience in unmanned underwater systems development
Experience using a requirements database environment (DOORS, Jama, etc.) to maintain complex collections of requirements and test plans
Experienced in Model Based Systems Engineering tools and approaches
Working knowledge of Department of Defense, with particular focus on Department of the Navy systems engineering practices
Active government security clearance
Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA, with potential for occasional hybrid on-site/work from home opportunities. This position will require occasional travel to remote locations in support of testing as part of a small team of researchers, engineers, and technologists.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Principal Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
19+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
None

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 - Senior Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
14+ years of relevant experience
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/CLEARANCESEmployment 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 & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $109,300.00 - $219,600.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
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.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
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. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
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 .
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