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
We are searching for an Optical Communications Engineer to join our Electro-Optics and Electronics Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. You would join a team advancing the state of the art in multiple areas of electro-optical systems, providing superior technical performance to enhance warfighter capability. This position works out of ARL’s Freeport, PA location.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
- Perform research and development tasks in optical communications; these include system-based analysis tasks as well as prototype development and testing
- Communicate and document results in reports and presentations
- Assist with development of proposals for projects
- Assist in new concept development
- Analyze alternatives independently and apply engineering techniques and procedures to assignments
- Lead optical communication-related projects of small or moderate size and scope, making substantial contributions
- Engage with government customers to identify opportunities and provide potential solutions that lead to funded projects
Higher-level responsibilities include:
- Provide technical leadership within the division for optical communications
- May chair sessions at technical conferences/meetings
- Participate in external seminars, workshops, professional societies and committees
- Independently manage multiple and/or large optical communications projects
Required skills and experience include:
- Five years or more experience in guided (fiber), free-space or under-sea optical communications
- Experience in optical system design, especially as it relates to free space and/or fiber optical communication systems
- Familiar with communication architectures, systems, protocols, devices, media, and integration
- Hands-on prototyping and demonstration of optical and RF components, links, and networks
- Interfacing with, collection from, and diagnosis of data from hardware
- Ability to clearly communicate, document, and present results
Preferred skills and experience include:
- A Master's degree in Physics or Optical Engineering
- Development and understanding of optical communication architectures, systems, protocols, devices, media, and integration
- Knowledge of current state-of-the-art systems, optical propagation, laser communications systems and subsystems, especially as they pertain to military applications
- Space-based payload and systems experience
- End-to-end optical remote sensor development
- Current relationships with optical suppliers and familiar with the optics vendor ecosystem
- Business development experience with government customers
- Project management and leadership
- Experience with VPI or OptSim or similar
- An active Secret security clearance with eligibility for TS/SCI
Your working location will be on-site, located in Freeport, PA. A hybrid work schedule may be possible.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Senior Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
14+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
None

If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
5+ years of relevant experience
Required 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 Intelligence 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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