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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.

 

 

 

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