Communications and Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer

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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work additional information on remote work at Penn State seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a technically strong Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to join the C3I Integrated Communications Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our division develops advanced communications technologies that support mission-critical needs across the Department of Defense and Intelligence this role you will support research development analysis and prototyping of resilient communications and signal processing systems that directly contribute to national security and sponsor mission success.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply.

You Will:

• Develop test and evaluate advanced signal processing algorithms and communication techniques
• Model and simulate communication system physical layer (PHY) protocols and waveforms
• Prototype communication capabilities using software defined radios (SDRs) and open source tools
• Contribute to waveform modulation and algorithm design for challenging channel environments
• Perform system level analysis theoretical evaluation and performance assessments
• Document findings prepare recommendations and present results to sponsors
• Participate in field tests demonstrations and stakeholder engagements
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across ARL and with government sponsors

Additional responsibilities for higher level positions include:

• Leading technical tasks or project components
• Conducting feasibility studies and shaping program direction
• Providing technical mentorship to junior staff or students
• Contributing to division level research strategies and initiatives

Required Skills / Experience areas include:

• Technical background in communications and signal processing (e.g. waveform design detection/estimation protocol development or channel modeling)
• Simulation or analysis tools such as MATLAB or Python
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary team oriented environments
• Ability to express technical ideas clearly through written and oral communication
• 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 if required

Preferred Skills / Experience areas include:

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Electrical Engineering Computer Engineering Computer Science Applied Mathematics Physics or related field
• SDR development laboratory or field testing or data analysis
• Programming experience in Python C MATLAB or similar languages
• Wireless underwater satellite or optical communication systems
• Communications security AI/ML for communications or network protocol development

Your working location will be fully on-site located in State College PA Reston VA or Annapolis Junction MD though options may exist for a hybrid on-site/work from home arrangement based on project needs. This role may require periodic CONUS and OCONUS travel to support field tests demonstrations or sponsor engagements.

Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

MINIMUM EDUCATION WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Advanced Professional this position requires: Bachelors Degree - Engineering or Science 5 years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Intermediate Professional this position requires: Bachelors Degree - Engineering or Science 2 years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Professional this position requires: Bachelors Degree - Engineering or Science No prior relevant work experience required Required Certifications: None

ARLs 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 Intelligence Community (IC).

For further information on ARL visit:

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL): 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 $110520.00 - $240960.00. This salary range includes an adjustment based on required geographic work location.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn States salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional 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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