Power Microwave Engineer

Position: High-Power Microwave Engineer
Location: Center

Join to apply for the High‑Power Microwave Engineer role at Penn State University.

Application Instructions

Current Penn State employees and students must apply through Workday. External applicants should click “Apply” to complete the application process.

Position Specifics

We are searching for a High‑Power Microwave (HPM) Engineer to join our Electro‑Optics and Electronics Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The position is based in Freeport, PA and will be filled as either a Senior or Principal Research and Development Engineer.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, integration, and evaluation of HPM/RF/EW systems and sensors.
• Perform engineering work related to HPM/RF/EW systems across a broad application space.
• Act as an HPM/RF/EW subject matter expert, analyzing technical data from vendors and making recommendations to the government.
• Lead the development of proposals and projects that advance HPM/RF/EW knowledge, sensors, and manufacturing technology improvements.
• Recommend emplacement of HPM/RF/EW systems to maximize lethality while minimizing equipment impact.
• Provide professional engineering advice, guidance, and assistance throughout research, development, and deployment stages.
• Formulate/estimate technical parameters not currently available.
• Support risk assessment and safety assessment reporting, as well as technical data packages and presentation materials.
• Provide project updates to sponsors, present research findings at conferences, and publish peer‑reviewed articles.
• Collaborate regularly with program management, sponsors, and stakeholders.
• Develop long‑term professional relationships with manufacturers and system integrators, and with government sponsors.
• Participate in strategic planning initiatives and collaborate with engineers in other ARL technical areas.
• Plan, staff, and execute programs.
• Foster a collaborative environment across the department, division, office, and ARL.

Required Skills / Experience

• All aspects of HPM/RF/EW system development including hardware, software, and signal processing.
• Development of advanced technology systems.
• Conceptualizing, developing, testing, and fielding solutions with a broad range of technologies.
• Expert knowledge of current and emerging warfighter needs in HPM/RF/EW.
• Understanding of systems engineering processes.
• Experience supporting DoD acquisition and/or sustainment programs.
• Demonstrated success leading a team of engineers/scientists.
• Experience collaborating in a multidisciplinary, team‑oriented environment.
• Excellent presentation and written communication skills.
• Strong commitment to excellence and ability to work within a multi‑disciplined team.
• Proven track record of managing technology projects.

Preferred Skills / Experience

• Experience in HPM/RF/EW systems.
• Familiarity with the DoD Manufacturing Technology Program.
• Experience with sensors such as EO/IR, Radar, etc.
• Experience with non‑kinetic effectors (Lasers, EW, etc.).
• Significant application of HPM/RF/EW manufacturing technology improvements in defense manufacturing.
• Track record of developing and sustaining new technology programs.
• Active government security clearance with ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

Education & Experience

Research and Development Engineer – Principal Professional:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science + 19+ years of relevant experience.

Research and Development Engineer – Senior Professional:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science + 14+ years of relevant experience.

Location

Freeport, PA. A hybrid work schedule may be possible.

Benefits

Salary range $ – $. Penn State provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible families.

Security & Background Checks

All positions require successful completion of a background check. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and able to obtain a government security clearance. Drug screening is required.

EEO Statement

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer 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.

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