Embedded Software Department Head

About the role

We are searching for a Department Head to join our Embedded Software (ES) department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the U.S. Military. The ES Department’s mission is to design, build, test, and deliver software and firmware for undersea systems. The department is responsible for designing, implementing, and integrating software for Science & Technology demonstrations as well as Engineering Development and In-Service system programs. The ES department serves as the leading resource for our Undersea Systems Office (USO) in real-time embedded software/firmware design, development, integration, and testing. This position may be filled as either a Research and Development Engineer or a non-tenure Research Faculty. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply. Your working location will be fully on-site and located in State College, PA. Options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. This role may require periodic travel to remote locations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain a high-performing workforce through coaching, mentorship, succession planning, talent development, and employee engagement
• Establish the technical vision and strategic direction for the department, ensuring capabilities, resources, and investments align with office, division, and laboratory objectives
• Direct and oversee the software engineering function in developing, releasing, and maintaining software and firmware applications to meet program, customer, and business needs
• Guide the architecture, design, development, integration, and testing of embedded software and firmware solutions for autonomous and undersea systems
• Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, continuous improvement, and adherence to software engineering best practices
• Establish and maintain policies, processes, and standards that produce high-quality products, including coding principles, engineering tools, and development methodologies
• Coordinate with office engineering leadership to ensure rigorous execution, sound research and engineering practices, and the highest standards of technical work
• Collaborate with division and office leadership to prioritize work, allocate resources, manage staffing requirements, and support current and future programs
• Lead major research and development initiatives and shape the department's long-term research and technology portfolio