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Computer Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$92K - $200K/yr

POSITION SPECIFICS We are seeking highly motivated Computer Engineers to join our Access and Evaluation (A&E) Department within the Multimodal Sensing and Systems (MSS) Division of the Applied ...

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Computer Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$48.6K

$121.8K

$137.8K

How much do computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer engineer in Pennsylvania is $121,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,800.00 and $131,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer engineer?

To thrive as a Computer Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and hardware/software design, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as C/C++ or Python), circuit design tools, and industry certifications like CompTIA or Cisco are highly valuable. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure that computer engineers can design, implement, and optimize systems that meet technical requirements and business goals.

Are computer engineers highly paid?

Computer engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, location, and specialization. In general, they are among the higher-paid engineering professionals, especially those with skills in software development, hardware design, or cybersecurity. Advanced certifications and expertise in programming languages or systems can further increase earning potential.

What is the difference between Computer Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related field; certifications like Cisco, CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering; certifications like Microsoft, AWS
Work EnvironmentDesigning hardware, embedded systems, and software integration in labs or officesWriting, testing, and maintaining software applications in offices or remote setups
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, telecommunications, embedded systemsIT firms, software companies, startups, enterprise software development

Computer Engineers focus on both hardware and software systems, often working on embedded systems and hardware integration. Software Developers primarily create and maintain software applications. While their roles overlap in programming, Computer Engineers have a broader scope including hardware design, whereas Software Developers specialize in software solutions.

What is a computer engineer?

A computer engineer designs, researches, tests, and develops computer equipment and software such as circuit boards, chips, routers, and application programs. Computer engineers analyze complex equipment and systems to understand the best way to improve it. They create new types of information technology devices and use logic and reasoning to hone in on goals, test assumptions, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems. Engineers often work in teams and have to be able to communicate with other types of engineers, including non-technical team members. Computer engineers make sure that components fit together properly and function according to the latest software developments.

What kind of jobs do computer engineers have?

Computer engineers work in designing, developing, and testing computer hardware and software systems. They may be involved in areas such as embedded systems, network infrastructure, cybersecurity, and software development, often requiring knowledge of programming languages and engineering principles.

What are common challenges computer engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Computer engineers often collaborate with software developers, hardware designers, and project managers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and communication styles. Ensuring that everyone has a clear understanding of system limitations and integration points is crucial, as miscommunication can lead to project delays or rework. Staying adaptable and proactively clarifying expectations helps computer engineers navigate these collaborative environments successfully.
More about Computer Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Computer Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Computer Engineer jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Computer Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineer jobs in PA? For Computer Engineer jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Computer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,807 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

Computer Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$92K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

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 seeking highly motivated Computer Engineers to join our Access and Evaluation (A&E) Department within the Multimodal Sensing and Systems (MSS) Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. As part of the MSS Division, you will support our mission by focusing on nascent technologies in the areas of electromagnetics, electromagnetic maneuver warfare, quantum sciences, and sensors through cross-division and cross-office collaborations.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Develop software and approaches for full-stack development, including low-level code, working directly with hardware, developing cloud solutions, data engineering for information storage and retrieval, and development of front-end tools for use by data analysts
  • Conduct data analysis, incorporating multiple data modalities and formats and exploratory data analysis for testing hypothesis
  • Implement, test, and evaluate services to compare models competing to solve the same problem; support test and evaluation of software and models
  • Develop and implement data analytics techniques and applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software
  • Develop and apply algorithms and prototypes to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets that support analytics objectives
  • Visualize, interpret, and report data findings in dynamic data reports

Required skills/experience areas include:
  • Python
  • Linux, including familiarity with bash and shell scripts
  • Cloud architectures

Preferred skills/experience areas include:
  • Additional computer programing languages such as Java, or C/C++
  • Development of software within DoD development environment
  • Development or evaluation of AI/ML models
  • A degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or applied mathematics
  • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret or Top Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required

Your working location will be fully onsite in State College, PA.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Computer Engineering (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Computer Engineering (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Computer Engineering (ARL) - Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or ScienceNo prior relevant work experience requiredRequired Certifications:None
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 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 $92,100.00 - $200,808.00.
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.
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