POSITION SPECIFICSWe are searching for motivated and talented team members with science, technology, engineering, acoustics, or mathematics (STEM) based education and background to join the Undersea Systems Simulation (USS) Department of the Model-Based Engineering (MBE) Division in the Undersea Systems Office (USO) at Penn State’s Applied Research Laboratory (ARL). We support our national security and undersea warfare sponsors through the development and demonstration of science and technology with the expertise, tools, and processes to take concepts from the early developmental phase through transition to industry and the fleet.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
YOU WILLDesign, setup, and execute transient, physics-based computer simulation studies to investigate a wide range of metrics associated with undersea engagements
Perform modeling, simulation, and analyses of undersea systems for a variety of Department of Defense (DoD) applications
Analyze simulation study results and condense results into cohesive conclusions and actionable recommendations
Perform system-level operability and Concept of Operations (CONOPS) based studies and analysis of results
Analyze, design, and implement computational models (vehicle dynamics, sound propagation, signal processing, etc.) associated with undersea systems modeling and simulation
Integrate and analyze vehicle software (operational code) including guidance and control, signal processing, and vehicle controller into larger digital simulations
Utilize modeling and simulation (M&S) using physics-based software models and software in the loop (SWIL) simulations
No hardware and/or hardware-in-the-loop is involved with the position
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
FOR THE HIGHER-LEVEL POSITION INCLUDEWorking with more complex scenarios
Performing more in-depth analyses
Managing more concurrent tasking
REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE AREAS INCLUDEA degree in an area of study related to Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Engineering Science, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Acoustics, or Computer Science
Ability to understand complex and/or ill-defined systems, develop action plans to resolve questions about those systems, and deliver concrete findings and guidance from studies to stakeholders and customers
Creativity in problem solving, including the ability to absorb a broad range of information
Inquisitive, proactive, and interested in learning new tools, techniques, and problem domains
Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication and presentation skills
Well-organized, independent, and ready to work
Comfortable working in an environment where problems are often not initially well-defined
PREFERRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE AREAS INCLUDEModelling vehicle dynamics, signal processing, sound propagation, undersea acoustics, reverberation, sonar arrays, numerical analysis & methods, statistics, autonomy algorithms, and/or computational physics
Programming for engineering applications and scientific applications (FORTRAN, C, C++, Ada, Matlab, Python, and/or Simulink, etc.)
Willingness to concurrently work multiple projects (usually 2-3)
Ability to work closely with small cadre of highly trained professionals to meet challenging design and program objectives
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
WORKING LOCATION & CONDITIONSYour working location will be fully onsite, located in State College, PA.
Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
This role may require periodic travel.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Simulation and Modeling (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 - Simulation and Modeling (ARL) - Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
No prior relevant work experience required
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS / CLEARANCESEmployment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
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.
EEO STATEMENT:
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.
OUR VALUES:
Our values are as follows: Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community.
We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.
