Research and Development Systems Engineer
About the role
We are searching for a highly motivated and self-starting Systems Engineer to join our Mission Systems (MS) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State and serve as a Systems Engineer and System Architect.
Responsibilities
- Define and develop system architectures for complex, multi-domain defense systems using systems engineering principles
- Apply modular design approaches to decompose complex systems into manageable, interoperable subsystems and components
- Develop architectural frameworks, interface definitions, and integration strategies
- Lead requirements analysis, functional decomposition, and allocation across system hierarchies
- Conduct trade studies and alternatives analysis to evaluate architectural approaches
- Create and maintain system architecture documentation including block diagrams, interface control documents, and design specifications
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure architectural integrity throughout system development
- Support verification and validation planning to ensure system architecture meets operational requirements
- Communicate architectural concepts and technical recommendations to stakeholders and project sponsors
Qualifications
- Technical background in Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related engineering discipline
- 5+ years of experience designing and developing complex systems
- Past success with systems engineering approaches to system architecture and modular design
- System decomposition, functional analysis, and interface management
- Understanding of systems engineering principles, processes, and lifecycle management
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work across engineering disciplines
- Ability to express ideas successfully to drive understanding
- Past success in writing white papers or reports
Preferred qualifications
- Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) training and experience with tools such as Cameo, MagicDraw, or similar
- Department of Defense or Navy systems development programs
- Defense system architectures and standards (e.g., DoDAF, UAF, MODAF)
- Digital engineering practices and tools
- Requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, Jama, Innoslate)
- Open systems architectures and modular open systems approach (MOSA)
- MATLAB, Simulink, or other system modeling and simulation tools
Benefits
- Salary range: $105,900.00 - $200,808.00
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Robust retirement plans
- Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick time
- 75% tuition discount for eligible employees, spouses, and children
Pay
Your starting salary will be within the range of $105,900.00 - $200,808.00, depending on your education, experience, and certifications.
Schedule
Your working location will be on-site in State College, PA, but options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Robust retirement plans
- Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick time
- 75% tuition discount for eligible employees, spouses, and children
Contact Information
If you have questions related to flexible work, please direct them to the hiring manager during the interview process. For further information on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu.