R&D Engineer Intern

About the Role

• Motivated undergraduate student to join the Information Sciences Division, MLOps Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State.
• Position located at a government facility in Key West, Florida, during the Summer of 2027.
• Support research and development activities focused on applying data analysis, information science, software, and security technologies to real-world government applications.
• Work alongside engineers, researchers, and government personnel to support the development, integration, testing, and evaluation of emerging technologies in an operational environment.

Typical Focus Areas

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
• Data analytics, data mining, and visualization
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial data analysis
• Relational and network analysis tools
• Software development, integration, and testing
• Information and cybersecurity, both in theory and practice

Fields Encouraged to Apply

• B.S. in an engineering discipline
• B.S. in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Science, or a related technical discipline

Interest Skills/Experience Areas

• Experience with or interest in programming and scripting languages such as Python, Java, C++, or similar languages
• Familiarity with data analysis, data visualization, or data-processing techniques and tools
• Interest in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or data-driven applications
• Familiarity with GIS, geospatial technologies, relational databases, or network analysis tools
• Understanding of basic software development, systems integration, or cybersecurity concepts
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an ability to troubleshoot technical challenges
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary technical team
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document technical activities and results
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher is preferred.
• May be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

Work Schedule & Location

• Work up to 40 hours/week over the summer.
• Fully on-site located in Key West, FL.

Requirements & Clearances

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s).
• Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance.
• Participate in the ARL drug testing program.
• Comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors.
• Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas.