Duties
This vacancy announcement will be open from May 13, 2026 to May 19, 2026 or when 50 applications have been received. The vacancy will close on whichever day the first of these conditions are met. If the application limit is reached on the same day the announcement opened, the open and close date will be the same. Candidates are encouraged to read the entire announcement before submitting their application packages.
Project Summary
Students will support the design and development of an automated hardware test bed that performs repetitive physical actions—such as pressing buttons, toggling switches, or interacting with devices—normally requiring human intervention. The project integrates mechanical design, embedded systems, automation, and engineering documentation. Students gain hands-on experience creating a functional prototype using microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), sensors, actuators, and custom 3D-printed components.
Key Learning Objectives
Students will:
• Apply systems engineering processes including needs assessment, concept of operations, and requirements development.
• Design and fabricate mechanical components using 3D printing and other methods.
• Build embedded hardware-software systems using microcontrollers, sensors, and servos.
• Develop automation scripts and control logic (Python, C/C++).
• Create and document test procedures and pass/fail criteria.
• Present findings and deliver a final working prototype and documentation package.
Student Responsibilities:
• Prototype mechanical, electrical, and software systems.
• Integrate hardware and software into a functional test rig.
• Develop test cycles, data capture methods, and automation routines.
• Maintain engineering documentation throughout the term.
• Participate in weekly check-ins, midpoint review, and final project presentation (as recommended for supervisors and students)
Requirements
Conditions of employment
Conditions of employment
To participate in this Program, you must:
Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S National studying in the U.S. Students studying abroad are ineligible for application. All remote work must be completed domestic within the United States.
Be enrolled not less than half-time in an accredited trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution.
Be in good academic standing as defined by your institution.
Commit to volunteering 8 – 20 hours per week for a minimum of 90 days.
Complete all required onboarding documentation assigned by the Federal agency and your academic institution.
Agree to volunteer. This position is unpaid. No compensation, stipends, or hiring preference will be granted from this work. You may use this volunteer experience to qualify for future jobs you choose to apply for.
Agree to understanding volunteers are not Federal employees.
Must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 out of 4.0 scale.
Qualifications
Applicants will be considered based on their knowledge, skills or abilities related to project needs.
Specifically, applicants should have:
- Familiarity with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or similar microcontroller platforms
- Basic programming experience (Python, C/C++, etc.)
- Willingness to learn mechanical design and additive manufacturing (3D printing)
- Strong problem-solving and documentation skills
Education
To qualify, you must be enrolled not less than half-time in an accredited trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution. You also must be in good academic standing as defined by your institution. Attach a copy of your transcripts to your application package for verification.
Prefer students have an interest or coursework in engineering, robotics, electronics, or computer science
Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 out of 4.0 scale.
Students studying abroad are ineligible for application. All remote work must be completed domestic within the United States.
Additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
This is an unpaid volunteer experience. Student volunteers are not considered Federal employees for any purpose other than injury compensation and laws related to the Federal Tort Claims Act, and service is not creditable for leave accrual or other employee benefits.
Professional experience: Meaningful project work with clear deliverables, regular supervision and federal mentorship.
Skill Development: Hands-on application of academic knowledge in real-world Federal operations.
Career Exploration: Exposure to Federal missions, workplace culture, and potential career pathways.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Your application will be evaluated by Department of State personnel to determine your eligibility for the position and your application will be forwarded to the project manager for review.
You may preview questions for this vacancy.
Required Documents
- Include any supporting documents that don't fit within another category or are listed in the job announcement.
- Proof of enrollment shows that you are enrolled in a school or training.
- Your resume should include relevant work experience, applicable education and your contact information. For current or previous federal employees, include the pay plan, series and grade.
- See the job announcement for what you should include in the supplemental application.
- Transcripts may support your qualifications for a federal job and can include high school, college or other schools.
To apply for this position, you must submit a complete Application Package which includes:
1. Your resume (two or fewer pages) showing:
• Your work experience to include start and end dates.
• Education information, such as the name of your school and dates of attendance.
• Any knowledge, skills or abilities you've gained through education that relate to the project.
2. Proof of current enrollment not less than half-time in a trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution.