RF Research Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University•University Park, FL

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Antennas, Computational Electromagnetics, Propagation Department of the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking an experienced Research and Development Engineer to manage complex RF Propagation projects, contribute to customers' strategic objectives, mentor staff, and develop relationships to seek funding from potential donors. The primary research focus is RF Propagation from ELF to millimeter wave. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply. You will: Using accepted methods and techniques, lead with the design, development, and implementation of RF propagation models including environmental effects such as space weather and meteorology. Also, you will lead teams using RF propagation models to analyze the effectiveness of engineering products, systems, and subsystems. Develop novel techniques in RF propagation including new mathematical derivations of both electromagnetic phenomena and relevant environmental factors such as radio space weather and meteorology. Lead RF propagation experiments/tests in the laboratory/field to test, prove, or modify theoretical propositions on basis of research findings and experiences of others researching in related technical areas; includes taking measurements and recording observations, collecting, compiling, and processing data. Document data/findings in technical reports, documents, or oral/written presentations. Create opportunities to improve RF propagation modeling and analysis capability either extending existing capability, developing new methods, or diversifying into new applications. Provide innovative problem-solving approaches to enhance RF propagation modeling and analysis capabilities; use peer network to expand technical capabilities and identify new research opportunities. Understand broad strategic objectives and applications of RF propagation modeling and analysis and contribute; nurture and maintain relationships with major sponsors of external research and develop grant funding. Research and identify follow-on research projects and/or initiate new project concepts; develop technical proposals; and make presentations to customers. Additional Responsibilities for the senior level include: Proven successful experience leading a research team. Ability to conveying information to drive action or decision. Manage multiple and/or large RF Propagation and analysis projects. May chair sessions at technical meetings; give papers and/or presentations; participate in external seminars, workshops, professional societies, and committees. Mentor staff in the development of technical, project, and business development skills. Make substantial contributions to determining feasibility of goals/objectives; evaluate proposed or ongoing projects. This position can be filled at multiple levels, depending on your education and work experience. 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. You will be subject to a government security investigation. An active security clearance is highly desired. You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply. Employment with ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

Requirements

Minimum requirements include a Bachelors' degree in an Engineering or Science related discipline plus five years' related experience.
Additional education and/or experience required for higher level positions.
Experience in RF Propagation mathematical methods, implementation of new and established methods, and application of methods to solve specific problems
Demonstrated ability to document research findings in whitepapers and technical reports
Proven experience implementing scientific or technical solutions independently with guidance from mentors
Demonstrated understanding and experience with end to end design, implementation, and testing of technical and scientific solutions
Effective at presenting in front of large groups of senior level professionals
fluent in multiple various scientific programming languages from Matlab, Python, C++, and FORTRAN
proven ability to read and understand complex applied mathematics and numerical implementations
You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply.
Employment with ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

Nice To Haves

A Masters' degree or PHD in Mathematics or Electrical Engineering is preferred.
Current active security clearance
ability to learn new programming languages and tools, mathematical techniques and numerical implementations

Responsibilities

Using accepted methods and techniques, lead with the design, development, and implementation of RF propagation models including environmental effects such as space weather and meteorology.
Lead teams using RF propagation models to analyze the effectiveness of engineering products, systems, and subsystems.
Develop novel techniques in RF propagation including new mathematical derivations of both electromagnetic phenomena and relevant environmental factors such as radio space weather and meteorology.
Lead RF propagation experiments/tests in the laboratory/field to test, prove, or modify theoretical propositions on basis of research findings and experiences of others researching in related technical areas; includes taking measurements and recording observations, collecting, compiling, and processing data.
Document data/findings in technical reports, documents, or oral/written presentations.
Create opportunities to improve RF propagation modeling and analysis capability either extending existing capability, developing new methods, or diversifying into new applications.
Provide innovative problem-solving approaches to enhance RF propagation modeling and analysis capabilities; use peer network to expand technical capabilities and identify new research opportunities.
Understand broad strategic objectives and applications of RF propagation modeling and analysis and contribute; nurture and maintain relationships with major sponsors of external research and develop grant funding.
Research and identify follow-on research projects and/or initiate new project concepts; develop technical proposals; and make presentations to customers.
Proven successful experience leading a research team.
Ability to conveying information to drive action or decision.
Manage multiple and/or large RF Propagation and analysis projects.
May chair sessions at technical meetings; give papers and/or presentations; participate in external seminars, workshops, professional societies, and committees.
Mentor staff in the development of technical, project, and business development skills.
Make substantial contributions to determining feasibility of goals/objectives; evaluate proposed or ongoing projects.