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.
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.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Location: Port Matilda, PA (In-Person)
Compensation: $20/hour
Duration: Summer 2026 (with potential continuation during the academic year)
Website: DREAM structures research group (https://sotostructures.com/)
Position Overview
The Design of Resilient Engineered Autonomous and Multifunctional structures lab at Penn State University is seeking a motivated student to support the installation and monitoring of structural sensors in a full-scale 3D-printed concrete house located in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania.
This position will focus on the deployment of structural health monitoring (SHM) systems within wall and roof components. The selected student will play a leading role in field instrumentation activities and will collaborate with architecture students responsible for environmental monitoring systems. The student should be comfortable working independently, taking initiative, and coordinating installation activities in the field.
Responsibilities
- Lead the installation of structural sensors within wall and roof systems of a 3D-printed concrete house.
- Support the deployment, calibration, and commissioning of structural monitoring systems.
- Install, route, protect, and document sensor wiring and data acquisition equipment.
- Verify sensor functionality and troubleshoot instrumentation issues.
- Maintain detailed field notes, photographs, and instrumentation drawings.
- Coordinate with architecture students responsible for environmental monitoring systems to ensure successful integration of monitoring equipment.
- Communicate project progress and field observations to the research team.
- Assist with data collection, management, visualization, and preliminary analysis.
- Follow project safety procedures and maintain organized documentation.
Required Qualifications
- Current undergraduate or graduate student in:
- Civil Engineering
- Architectural Engineering
- Structural Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Construction Engineering
- or a related field
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to travel to the project site in Port Matilda, PA.
- Ability to work independently and manage field tasks with limited supervision.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to work outdoors and perform light construction-related activities.
- Ability to lift and transport research equipment and tools.
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have prior experience with one or more of the following:
- Sensor installation and instrumentation
- Data acquisition systems (DAQ)
- Structural health monitoring (SHM)
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices
- Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or embedded systems
- Electronics, wiring, and troubleshooting
- Programming and data analysis (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
- Concrete structures, construction, or field testing
- Engineering drawings and technical documentation
Learning Opportunities
The student will gain hands-on experience in:
- Structural Health Monitoring (SHM)
- Smart sensing technologies
- Data acquisition systems
- Sensor networks and instrumentation
- 3D concrete printing and additive construction
- Smart infrastructure systems
- Field-based engineering research
- Interdisciplinary collaboration with architecture and engineering teams
Compensation and Duration
- Pay: $20/hour
- Location: Port Matilda, PA
- Start Date: Summer 2026
- Potential Renewal: Opportunity to continue during the academic year based on project needs, funding availability, and performance.
This position is ideal for a student interested in sensors, smart infrastructure, structural monitoring, and emerging construction technologies. The selected student will have a unique opportunity to help lead the instrumentation of one of the region's first 3D-printed concrete housing research projects while working closely with faculty, graduate researchers, and architecture students.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
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.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines
