Part-Time Summer Engineering Research Assistant - Structural Monitoring of a 3D-Printed Concrete House
About The Position
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.
Requirements
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- 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
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.
Benefits
- Pay: $20/hour
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
