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Engineering Designer

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University, State College, PA, United States


Job Overview We are searching for an entry‑level Electrical Engineering Designer to join the Mechanical – Electrical Design and Drafting Service Center of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. In this role, you will assist in the design, analysis, manufacture, and procurement support of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in support of ARL’s research offices.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will

Support cutting‑edge research utilizing PCB software to create schematics, PCBs, assemblies, library parts, bills of materials, and other documentation.

Collaborate with technical staff on conceptual design of electro‑mechanical systems.

Assist with or facilitate material selection, packaging, tolerance analysis, manufacturing support, and cost projections efforts.

Provide work status updates and present in design review meetings with senior staff.

Assist and support senior technical staff evolving design methods and techniques, including templates, as required for new and evolving research programs.

Assist and support the development or evaluation of new software tools and work processes to improve department capabilities in design, reporting, and efficiency of operation.

Required skills / experience

Basic working knowledge of electronic circuits and components in analog and digital design.

Microsoft Office and Adobe products.

Previous success with collaborations in a diverse, multi‑disciplinary, team‑oriented culture.

Preferred experience

PCB design software, including component creation, schematic layout, and design.

Altium software.

Electronics industry knowledge from PCB design through manufacturing.

Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and Configuration Management (CM).

Certification or familiarization with IPC standards.

Your working location will be 100% on‑site, but options may exist for a hybrid work from office and work from home scenario dependent upon research requirements. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications If filled as Engineering Designer – Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Associate Degree, 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

If filled as Engineering Designer – Professional, this position requires: Associate Degree. No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None.

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 $46,400.00 – $74,000.00. The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.

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 including 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 the Benefits Page.

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.

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 Intel Community (IC).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

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