
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 a proactive, customer-focused Electrical Engineering Support Specialist to join our Facilities and Instrumentation Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. You will support a team of R&D Engineers and Research Faculty within a unique state-of-the-art research environment that includes a high-performance water tunnel facility. Your technical expertise and collaborative mindset will help ensure the smooth operation of critical research systems and instrumentation.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
Support the operation of our large-scale research facilities
Operate and monitor the research facilities and respond quickly to unexpected situations
Perform test facility operations including setup, instrumentation, data acquisition, wiring, mechanical assembly, maintenance, and upgrades
Assess and troubleshoot equipment problems; resolve and/or report issues
Inspect, test, and calibrate sensors, parts, and equipment
Collaborate with and assist other support specialists, test engineers, drafting technologists, and mechanical designers as needed
Work as part of a project support team within the laboratory or in the field
Additional responsibilities for higher-level positions include:
Evaluate, recommend, integrate, and support the implementation of new technologies for test hardware, test setups, and facility hardware
May assume task leadership responsibilities within the laboratory or in the field
Develop and document standardized operating procedures to ensure safe and efficient operations
Required skills/experience areas include:
Understanding of basic electronic test equipment (e.g., multimeter, oscilloscope)
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings
Past success building cable assemblies, using solder and crimp-style connectors
Proficient soldering skills
Demonstrated safe use of basic hand and power tools (e.g., drills, soldering irons, heat guns)
Microsoft Office tools
Ability to work in confined spaces as needed
Ability to work at heights as needed
Preferred skills/experience areas include:
Prior experience using sensors such as pressure, temperature, level, current, voltage, power, etc.
Familiarity with LabVIEW
Familiarity with Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
Prior military experience in electrical technology
Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level; 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 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 CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Engineering Support Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
Associate Degree
4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
If filled as Engineering Support Specialist - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:
Associate Degree
2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
NoneARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challengingscientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the IntelCommunity (IC).FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website 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 $51,000.00 - $81,500.00.**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.
