Edtech.com's Summary

The Pennsylvania State University is hiring a Research and Development Engineer. This role involves researching, designing, developing, integrating, and testing advanced optical sensor algorithms in constrained processing architectures, working collaboratively with senior technical staff. The engineer will also develop software in C/C++, integrate optical components, and evaluate light curve analysis techniques while potentially leading complex projects and new research initiatives.

Highlights

Design algorithms and prototype software using C/C++ to interface with hardware and interfaces such as SPI and I2C.
Integrate optical components and develop light curve analysis techniques.
Lead and plan work on complex sensing problems affecting current and future products.
Propose and lead nationally significant research initiatives and present findings at professional forums.
Required experience includes light curve analysis, object and illumination source modeling, analysis sensitivity and bounds, and environmental effects.
Preferred skills: advanced mathematical analysis, image data processing, data dictionary manipulation, optical hardware/software, remote sensing requirements, MATLAB/Python simulations, and electro-optical principles.
Minimum qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science with 2+ years (Intermediate level) or 5+ years (Advanced level) of relevant experience; no certifications required.
Employment requires ability to obtain a government security clearance and U.S. citizenship; background checks and drug screening apply.
Salary range is $86,300 to $164,000, with possible geographic adjustments.
Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible dependents.

Research and Development Engineer Full Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

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

The Command, Control, and Communications Innovations Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State is looking for a motivated and talented engineer to join our team. This position will be working with senior technical staff to research, design, develop, integrate, and test advanced optical sensor algorithms in constrained processing architectures. This position will be fully on-site in State College.

Responsibilities include:

Algorithm and/or software design
Develop C/C++ or equivalent prototyping code to interface with developed hardware and associated interfaces (SPI, I2C, etc.)
Integration of optical components as appropriate
Evaluate/develop light curve analysis techniques

Additional responsibilities of the higher level include:

Devise, plan, and lead work on extremely complex sensing problems that impact the design success of current products or address broad design issues of future products of technologies
Propose and lead new research initiatives and guide programs of national significance
As a recognized researcher, by faculty and adviser, present papers, lead discussions and promote design concepts

Experience with the following is required:

Light curve analysis
Object and illumination source modeling
Analysis sensitivity and bounds
Familiarity with complex environmental effects

Preferred Experience includes:

Advanced mathematical analysis
Image data processing
Extensive data dictionary manipulation and pruning
Optical sensor hardware/software components
Evaluate/develop remote sensing operational requirements
MATLAB/Python modeling and simulation
EO principles

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position

requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None

ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $164,000.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**

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.

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Original Job Description