SD-WAN Solutions Development EngineerWe are searching for an innovative and technically skilled SD-WAN Solutions Development Engineer to join our Cloud Technology Advancement Department within the Cyber, Modeling and Simulation (CMS) Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. Our department advances cutting-edge networking solutions for DoD, 4th estate, and IC communities. In this role, you will design, develop, and implement next-generation Software Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) solutions that directly impact national security through network modernization and technology innovation.ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.You will:Design and develop next-generation SD-WAN architectures and solutions for DoD and IC environmentsResearch, prototype, and advance emerging SD-WAN technologies including SASE, zero-trust architectures, and cloud-integrated networkingImplement network automation frameworks using Python, Ansible, and infrastructure-as-code toolsDeploy and test SD-WAN solutions in both connected and internet-disconnected (Dark Cloud) environmentsCollaborate with cross-functional teams to transition R&D innovations from concept through prototype to operational solutionsDocument technical specifications, research findings, and architecture designsSupport solution deployments and troubleshooting in classified environmentsAdditional responsibilities for higher level positions include:Lead technical architecture design, discovery, and validation for complex SD-WAN implementationsMentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on advanced networking conceptsTake responsibility and accountability for program outcomes and research deliverablesPresent technical concepts and innovations to senior leadership including General Officers, SES, or Presidential appointeesDrive strategic technical discussions supporting technology adoption and modernization initiativesRequired skills/experience areas include:Hands-on experience designing and implementing SD-WAN solutions using hardware-based or software-based platforms (e.g., Cisco Viptela, Fortinet, Palo Alto Prisma, VMware VeloCloud, Juniper Session Smart Router, or DISA APL-listed solutions)Strong understanding of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), overlay technologies (VXLAN, GRE, IPsec), and WAN optimizationExperience with network automation and programmability using scripting languages (Python, Ansible) and APIsDeep knowledge of DoD/IC security concepts including zero-trust architectures, encryption, and secure network segmentationActive DoD Secret clearance (minimum requirement)DoD 8140/8570 IAT II baseline certification (Security+ce, GSEC, or SSCP)Preferred skills/experience areas include:Active DoD TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI with Polygraph (highly preferred; clearance upgrades may be required based on program needs)Experience with Rapid Prototype and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) advancement in networking domainSASE architecture implementation and multi-cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP)Dell enterprise switching (OS10, PowerSwitch) or Juniper platforms (SRX, MX Series, Junos OS)Software development experience for network automation and DevSecOps integrationNetwork Function Virtualization (NFV), SDN controllers, and containerized networking (Kubernetes, service meshes)Industry certifications: CCNA/CCNP/CCIE, Fortinet NSE, Palo Alto PCNSE, Juniper JNCIS/JNCIP, VMware VCP-NV, DoD 8140/8570 IAT III (CISSP/CASP), or vendor-specific SD-WAN certificationsPublication record or patent portfolio in networking domainU.S.
Military Veterans & U.S. Military ReservistsYour working location fully on-site located in State College, PA, but options exist for hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. This position will require periodic travel with limited notice (potentially less than 3 days) in support of solution deployments, testing, or troubleshooting to locations including Europe, Asia, San Diego CA, and other CONUS locations.MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf 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: NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications: NoneARL'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 website at & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $91,488.00 - $202,464.00.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.EEO IS THE LAWPenn 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 .