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Pennsylvania State University

Simulation Software Engineer

🇺🇸 University Park, PA 🕑 Full-Time 💰 $109K - $191K 💻 Software Engineering 🗓️ April 10th, 2026
Python SCRUM PK

Edtech.com's Summary

The Pennsylvania State University is hiring a Simulation Software Engineer to join their Simulation Software Department at the Applied Research Laboratory. The role involves designing, implementing, and maintaining software for undersea system simulations supporting Department of Defense applications, integrating vehicle software into larger simulations, executing software tests, and potentially providing technical leadership and mentoring within projects.

Highlights
  • Develop and maintain software for undersea systems modeling and simulation.
  • Integrate vehicle software components such as guidance, control, and signal processing into digital simulations.
  • Design, execute, and document software tests for verification and validation of simulations.
  • Provide leadership on projects and mentor junior staff (for higher-level positions).
  • Required skills include proficiency in one or more of C/C++, Python, Fortran, Ada, MATLAB, Simulink, and Linux environments.
  • Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree in relevant scientific or engineering fields, experience with Git, Agile/SCRUM methodologies, and eligibility for Secret-level security clearance.
  • Must hold a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science plus 5+ years relevant experience (Advanced Professional level) or 14+ years (Senior Professional level).
  • Position requires the ability to obtain a government security clearance and U.S. citizenship.
  • Salary range is $109,300 to $191,000, potentially affected by geographic differential.
  • Work location is fully on-site in State College, PA, with occasional travel for testing support.

Simulation Software Engineer Full Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

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.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

We are searching for a Simulation Software Engineer to join our Simulation Software (SSW) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This motivated and talented individual will perform software development activities supporting undersea system simulations for a variety of Department of Defense (DoD) applications.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

  • Analyze, design, implement, and maintain software associated with undersea systems modeling and simulation, including interfaces used to execute simulations by other applications

  • Integrate and analyze vehicle software, including guidance and control, signal processing, and vehicle controllers into larger digital simulations

  • Design, set up, and execute software tests for simulation verification and validation, including identification of appropriate metrics

  • Document algorithms, code designs, and software tests in accordance with modern software development practices

  • Perform Simulation Software Engineering tasks of a large scope or lead specific tasks within the project scope

  • May mentor and/or train lower-level employees and students in the department

Additional responsibilities for the higher-level position include:

  • Provide technical leadership within the division for projects/programs

  • Make substantial contributions to determining feasibility of program goals

Required skills/experience areas include:

  • Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline plus five years' relevant experience

  • One or more ofC/C++, Python, Fortran, Ada, MATLAB, and Simulink

  • Linux

  • Ability to engage in constructive debate, expressing ideas clearly and actively listening to diverse viewpoints in a small team environment to meet challenging design and program objectives

  • Ability to clearly articulate technical information to program sponsors and management

Preferred skills/experience areas include:

  • A Master's degree in Acoustics, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Science, Applied Mathematics, or Computer Science

  • Version control software such as Git

  • Developing software using modern practices in an Agile/SCRUM environment

  • Success in an office environment, where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective

  • 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

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA. This position may require periodic travel to remote locations in support of testing as part of a small team of researchers, engineers, and technologists.

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science14+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None

 

ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

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 $109,300.00 - $191,000.00.**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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