Communications and Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer

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 Community. In 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.

About the Role

The role involves developing, testing, and evaluating advanced signal processing algorithms and communication techniques, modeling and simulating communication system physical layer (PHY) protocols and waveforms, prototyping communication capabilities using software defined radios (SDRs) and open source tools, contributing to waveform, modulation, and algorithm design for challenging channel environments, performing system level analysis, theoretical evaluation, and performance assessments, documenting findings, preparing recommendations, and presenting results to sponsors, participating in field tests, demonstrations, and stakeholder engagements, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across ARL and with government sponsors.

Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

• 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

Qualifications

• 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

Skills

Preferred skills 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.

Benefits

Salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $92,100.00 - $200,808.00. 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.

Pay

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $92,100.00 - $200,808.00.

Schedule

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

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: Bachelor's 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: Bachelor's 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: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science No prior relevant work experience required Required Certifications: None

Background Checks/Clearances

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.

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 814-865-1473.