Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 1, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 28, 2026. Pennsylvania State University scores C on the Alion truth index.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Your working location will be located fully on-site located in State College, PA. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.
We are seeking motivated and talented Signal Processing Research and Development Engineers to join the Sensor Analysis and Data Modeling (SADM) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. SADM tackles multidisciplinary topics, from signal processing to machine learning to software design, with a focus on sonar systems. Our department's goal is to leverage acoustic physics and all available data to generate data products and tools that support our military sponsors and our national defense.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and encourages transitioning service members to apply.
You will:
- Integrate subject matter expertise - Collaborate with a diverse group of engineers, scientists, and military personnel to understand problems from many perspectives
- Develop prototype algorithms - Design, write, and validate algorithms for use in analyses and data-product generation
- Execute analyses - Evaluate algorithm performance, data quality, and the feasibility of novel approaches
- Support field testing - Provide remote or in-person analysis and troubleshooting
- Deliver and transition results - Communicate findings clearly to stakeholders, scientists, and software engineers both within ARL and at external sponsors
Additional responsibilities for the higher-level position include:
- Contributing to publications, white papers, technical memos, and study plans
- Performing larger tasks independently or as part of a team, and leading small efforts
Required skills/experience include:
- MATLAB, R, or Python
- Creative problem-solving skills combined with basic data analysis and signal processing skills
- Demonstrated ability to absorb a broad range of information from a variety of fields
- Self-motivation and eagerness to learn new technical areas
- Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication and presentation skills
Preferred skills/experience include:
- Geographic information system (GIS) tools such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or Google Earth, and familiarity with GIS-related mapping and data-visualization concepts
- Version control and project-tracking tools such as Git and Jira
- Undersea systems and sonar technology
- 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
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as R&D 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 R&D Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science No prior relevant work experience required Required Certifications: NoneARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website atwww.arl.psu.edu.
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 $92,100.00 - $174,708.00.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.
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 814-865-1473.