World-class research demands a world-class workforce
We’re a diverse group of scientists, researchers, industry professionals, and creative thinkers. We seek intellectually curious, conscientious, and creative people to solve complex problems pursuant to our national security mission.
We take pride in our work and we rely on each other to find solutions for complicated challenges. We find strength in our unique perspectives and experiences as we learn and grow within ARL. Our people drive the success of any endeavor we pursue.
In addition to our generous benefits package, as an ARL employee you’ll have access to cutting-edge facilities and equipment. You’ll work alongside award-winning people whose passion for exploration, innovation, and discovery has led them to be recognized as national leaders in many of our areas of expertise. We encourage you to explore new areas of the Laboratory and to seek mentorship from the nearly 1,600 people who comprise our workforce.
We value your professional growth while at the Laboratory. Our R&D promotion process provides guidance and clarity as you navigate your career path. No matter where you are in your career, you belong at ARL. We offer opportunities for professional development not just at the Laboratory, but at Penn State as a whole.
ARL is also an authorized SkillBridge organization. The DOD SkillBridge program provides an opportunity for service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during the last 180 days of service. DOD SkillBridge connects transitioning service members with industry partners in real-world job experiences.
For more information on the SkillBridge program, please visit the DOD SkillBridge website, or contact us using the form on the contact page and select SkillBridge in the reason dropdown.
One of the most valuable aspects of working at ARL is the applied part of applied research that’s going on here.
Working here has given me the opportunity to learn foundational concepts in security and governmental regulation.
I’m proud to say that in my job I have the opportunity to wear many different hats.
Working at ARL is special because I am involved in very exciting research as an undergraduate.
What keeps me motivated is the knowledge that I could be the person who inspires someone else to pursue this career path.
The work at ARL is substantial, challenging, and technical.
Engagement is at the heart of the Penn State work experience. And what does it take for the approximately 39,000 employees of Penn State to work as one team? It takes shared ownership, by every team member, of Penn State’s inspiring set of core values. Prominent among these are:
- Collaboration
- Dignity of the individual
- Diversity of team members
- Equality of opportunity
- Freedom of expression
- Civility
- Shared governance
- Service to others
By living out these values, the people of Penn State champion a work culture of mutual respect, receptivity to new ideas, assertive helpfulness, and other characteristics that promote successful, satisfying job performance.
Nestled in the heart of central Pennsylvania, you’ll find ARL’s University Park facilities convenient to all kinds of activities the entire family can enjoy. Centre County’s picturesque landscapes provide access to skiing, hiking, fishing, cycling, and a host of other outdoor activities.
Penn State plays host to nationally-ranked art installations, theater productions, and premier speakers—some of which are offered at a discounted cost to employees. If the urge to explore beyond “Happy Valley” strikes, major cities including Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Harrisburg are all accessible within a day’s drive.