R&D Engineer: Software Engineer

Penn State University•University Park, IL

1d•$92,100 - $200,808•Onsite

About The Position

We are searching for analytical software engineers to join the Strategic Systems Operation Division within the Information Advantage Office at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will focus on software implementation, test, and productization. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Requirements

Proficiency in one or more modern programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, or Rust
Ability to design, implement, and maintain high-quality, scalable software solutions across the full development lifecycle
Strong understanding of software development principles, including object-oriented design, modular architecture, and version control
Experience developing, testing, and maintaining software in Linux and/or Windows environments
Working knowledge of modern development tools (Git, CI/CD pipelines, automated testing frameworks)
Knowledge of data structures, algorithms, and performance optimization
Experience with cloud platforms, distributed systems, or container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
Ability to produce clear, maintainable, and well-documented code
Systematic troubleshooting of operating systems and input-output debugging
Understanding of the network protocol stack
Prior success collaborating with product owners, researchers, system engineers, and other stakeholders to translate requirements into well-architected technical designs
Must be a U.S. citizen
Eligible to obtain a government security clearance
Participate in the ARL drug testing program
Comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors

Nice To Haves

Success in environments where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective
Demonstrated capacity to balance detail-oriented thinking while maintaining the ability to see the “big picture”
Demonstrated experience supporting transitional efforts
Current 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 to the TS/SCI level

Responsibilities

Apply your expertise in software to contribute to programs of national or international impact by identifying emerging challenges, research trends, and future opportunities
Ensure technical excellence and on-time completion of all project tasks
Develop and deliver clear updates on program status to Fleet-level personnel at both individual and community meetings
Interact and collaborate regularly with the engineering team, principal investigator, sponsors, and other stakeholders
Embrace ARL’s mission to discover, demonstrate, transition, and educate while contributing as a key member of a multi-disciplinary engineering team