Penn State Job Catalog

Additional levels that exist for this job profile can be seen below.

The defined natural career progression within or between job profiles.

Research Technologist - Physical Sciences

The Research Technologist- Physical Sciences develops, designs and conducts research projects/experiments in the laboratory/field related to Physical Science topics of study including astronomy, physics, chemistry, and Earth Sciences; investigates and evaluates research methods, advises faculty/researchers on optimal use of methodology and equipment; collects, correlates, analyzes, summarizes and reports on results; identifies data integrity issues; trains users in equipment operation and research techniques; and oversees daily operations of project.

• Conduct research projects or experiments related to physical sciences areas of study; ensure protocol adherence; review progress and evaluate results
• Apply theories and methods of a physical science discipline in order to perform a variety of experimental tasks
• Execute and develop data collection procedures; record, correlate, and analyze data; prepare analysis summaries
• Contribute to the design of research methods; identify potential problems; recommend solutions and technical approaches for problem solving
• Make recommendations for the use of data collection, management, and visualization software
• Train users in equipment operation and research techniques; explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, limitations, and outcomes
• Develop project protocols; provide input in determining feasibility of goals and objectives; responsible for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness of assigned projects
• Author papers, proposals, presentations and reports in order to disseminate findings to the larger research community
• May be responsible for operation of a specialized research area or laboratory
• May supervise staff members, including hiring, development, and performance management

Level:

– Intermediate Professional

Base Description:

– Completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates ability to perform intermediate tasks in defined skill areas. Demonstrates intermediate knowledge of internal procedures. Works under general supervision, performing assignments that may be varied and sometimes difficult. Supports team decisions and follows through with team responsibilities. Interprets and communicates information clearly and accurately. Demonstrates intermediate problem–solving skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– May serve as direct supervisor for part–time, student, and/or temporary workers or volunteers

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices

Problem Solving:

– Encounters generally routine problems; occasionally faces more complex and/or varied problems
– Typically follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
– Applies knowledge of larger unit goals, priorities, and related procedures in determining course of action

Independence of Action:

– Work is generally monitored by supervisor
– Detailed instructions and procedures are generally provided
– Uses available guidelines to make appropriate adaptations to routine situations and refers other situations to supervisor

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally within working unit and/or the University
– May communicate with external audiences
– Collaborates closely with team members
– Interprets and communicates information, ideas and instructions clearly and accurately both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution

• Comp Grade – 5
• Minimum – $38,300.00
• MidPoint – $46,900.00
• Maximum – $55,500.00