Sustainment Systems Research And Development EngineerThe Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State is seeking an experienced Sustainment Systems Research and Development Engineer to join our Sustainment Information Systems Department. ARL's mission is to deliver innovative engineering and technology solutions in support of the Department of Defense (DoD).In this role, you will leverage your expertise in DevOps, enterprise architectures, digital transformation, and sustainment system software engineering to support applied research in defense applications, with an emphasis on NAVSEA environments and submarine platform support.ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes applications from transitioning military members.You Will:Lead and support the design, development, and deployment of advanced sustainment information systems for defense applicationsDefine enterprise information system architectures and implement digital transformation best practices to optimize defense sustainment processesPrototype and demonstrate enterprise systems architectures leveraging modern cloud-native and DevOps approaches (Kubernetes, Docker, CI/CD pipelines)Apply expertise in cloud, container orchestration, and software lifecycle automation to enterprise sustainment challengesInvestigate and implement emerging technologies to enhance logistics, training, and sustainment systemsDeliver professional reports and executive-level presentations documenting findings and recommendationsContribute to technical proposals, risk assessments, and cost/effort estimates for research initiativesCollaborate with government and industry sponsors as well as Penn State faculty on applied research projectsMentor junior engineers in software engineering, DevOps practices, and project executionAdditional responsibilities for higher level position includes:Lead and mentor a team of engineers in the development and implementation of software systemsEngage with the sponsor and external collaborators to coordinate the development of complex software systemsRequired skills/experience areas include:Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering or related discipline; advanced degree preferred7+ years of professional experience in software engineering, DevOps, and enterprise systems developmentExperience deploying solutions in NAVSEA cloud environmentsExperience working with and modernizing current sustainment information systems used by Trident Refit FacilitiesProven ability to collaborate with DoD stakeholders to define requirements, evaluate solution paths, and deliver technical capabilitiesDemonstrated success driving digital transformation initiatives using cloud-native architectures and CI/CD automationHands-on experience with Kubernetes, Docker, GitLab CI/CD, Helm, and supporting enterprise sustainment platformsBackground in developing sustainment software solutions for defense applications.Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently or in multidisciplinary teamsPreferred skills/experience areas include:Certifications in Kubernetes, Azure, Scrum, and Security+Published research or technical documentation in enterprise sustainment or digital engineeringThis position will be fully on-site located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
This position will 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 CertificationsIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science14+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications: NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Software (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications: NoneSalary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $121,704.00 - $231,000.00.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.
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