R&D Engineer: Software Engineer

Penn State University • University Park, IL

1d • $140,004 - $265,704 • 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
• 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
• Must be a U.S. citizen

Nice To Haves

• 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

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal