Part-Time Summer Engineering Research Assistant - Structural Monitoring 3D-Printed Concret

Location:

Port Matilda, PA (In-Person)

Compensation: $20/hour

Duration:
Summer 2026 (with potential continuation during the academic year)

Website: DREAM structures research group ()

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 role focuses on deploying structural health monitoring (SHM) systems within wall and roof components, leading field‑instrumentation activities, and collaborating with architecture students responsible for environmental monitoring systems.

• 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.

• 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.

• Experience with sensor installation and instrumentation.
• Experience with data acquisition systems (DAQ).
• Experience with structural health monitoring (SHM).
• Experience with Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
• Experience with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or embedded systems.
• Experience with electronics, wiring, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with programming and data analysis (Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Experience with concrete structures, construction, or field testing.
• Experience with engineering drawings and technical documentation.

• 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

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.

Employment with the University requires successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as 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.

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 advancing equity, respect, and belonging.