Model-Based Systems Engineer
Pennsylvania State University
Model-Based Systems Engineer
Pennsylvania State University
Land-grant university in University Park, PA
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 highly motivated Systems Engineers with experience in Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) to join our Systems Engineering Department in the Undersea Systems Office at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will contribute across the full system lifecycle—from concept development through design, test, production, and sustainment.
USO designs, develops, validates, and maintains a suite of large-scale undersea warfare models and simulations used by technology developers, analysts, the Navy, and its allies. We serve as a research center of excellence in undersea weapons, unmanned undersea vehicles, and advanced sonars. We support our national security and undersea warfare sponsors through the development and demonstration of science and technology with the expertise, tools, and processes to take concepts from the early developmental phase through transition to industry and the fleet. USO designs, develops, validates, and maintains a suite of large-scale undersea warfare models and simulations used by technology developers, analysts, the Navy, and its allies. We serve as a research center of excellence in undersea weapons, unmanned undersea vehicles, and advanced sonars. We support our national security and undersea warfare sponsors through the development and demonstration of science and technology with the expertise, tools, and processes to take concepts from the early developmental phase through transition to industry and the fleet.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
Apply MBSE methods and SysML-based modeling to define and analyze system architectures
Develop and maintain system models using tools such as Cameo/MagicDraw, Rhapsody, Capella, or Enterprise Architect
Translate stakeholder needs into formal models, interface definitions, and verification artifacts
Maintain requirements and architecture traceability across design and test activities
Support technical reviews, trade studies, and risk assessments using model-based artifacts
Integrate MBSE practices into existing engineering processes and collaborate with subject‑matter experts
Prepare and present architecture views, behavior models, and related technical documentation
Support system development activities including requirements analysis, architecture development, alternatives analysis, system decomposition, detailed design, integration, and verification
Collaborate closely with Systems Engineering and Subsystem Design teams on undersea system architectures
Engage regularly with engineering teams, program management, sponsors, and stakeholders
Additional responsibilities for higher level positions includes:
Lead and mentor multidisciplinary engineering teams
Provide technical leadership in MBSE development, training, and best practices
Contribute to or lead technical proposals and white papers
Required skills/experience areas include:
Hands-on experience with MBSE frameworks (SysML, DoDAF, UAF, or similar)
MBSE toolset (e.g., Cameo, Rhapsody, Capella)
Systems engineering fundamentals including requirements, architecture, integration, and verification/validation
Maintaining traceability between requirements, design artifacts, and test plans
Applying digital engineering methods and MBSE to complex systems
Developing system models, modeling frameworks, templates, and MBSE processes, with emphasis on vehicle/system design
Leading technical teams or project activities
Experience collaborating in multi-disciplinary, team-oriented cultures
Preferred skills/experience areas include:
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Computer, Systems Engineering or related engineering discipline
Implementing digital engineering strategies or integrated toolchains
Scripting languages (Python, JavaScript, etc.) for automating model workflows or data exchange
Simulation environments, system‑of‑systems modeling, or model integration
Configuration management for model-based artifacts
CATIA MagicDraw/Cameo, System Composer, or Sparx Enterprise Architect
SysML v2, UAF 1.2/1.3, AADL, BPMN, or related languages
SIL/HIL or digital twin approaches
Past success developing unmanned underwater systems
Department of Defense and Navy systems engineering practices
Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required
Your working location can fully on-site to start for training located in State College, PA and then a hybrid of on-site/work from home based on project-dependent ability. 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 R&D Engineer - Systems (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
14+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
None

If filled as R&D Engineer - Systems (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
5+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
None

If filled as R&D Engineer - Optical and Photonic Systems (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
2+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
NoneARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.
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.Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):
Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $105,900.00 - $231,000.00.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.
Land-grant university in University Park, PA
Pennsylvania State University is a multi-campus, land-grant public research university whose mission spans undergraduate and graduate education, research, and public service.
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