Penn State Job Catalog

The defined natural career progression within or between job profiles.

Data Science

The Data Scientist develops, selects, and evaluates computational methods and statistical techniques to solve research problems; collaborates with research faculty to apply advanced simulation, data analysis, visual analytics or other computational techniques to research problems in the sciences, engineering, or other disciplines; develops computational approaches to research, such as more effective algorithms, programming methods, software tools, and underlying systems; and evaluates findings to develop new concepts, methods, processes or systems, or to develop applications of findings to new uses.

• Collaborate in the analysis and development of computational methods or procedures; independently evaluate, select, and apply appropriate methods to the specific research problems
• Propose solutions in engineering, the sciences, and other fields using mathematical theories and techniques
• Optimize and extend algorithms, analysis pipelines, and software in order to establish and ensure effectiveness and scalability of computing infrastructure
• Provide consultation for and expertise with computer applications to solve research problems; perform computerized data processing operations and statistical analyses of research data; create visualizations of results
• Determine feasibility of goals and objectives; ensure quality, effectiveness, and timeliness of assigned projects
• May author or co-author papers, proposals, presentations, and reports

Level:

– Senior Supervisor

Base Description:

– Supervises direct reports, but primarily completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge to perform own work; spends majority of time on tasks related to own job responsibilities. May demonstrate subject matter expertise. Demonstrates intermediate to advanced planning, organizing, directing, and facilitating skills. Demonstrates the ability to coach assigned employees. Assigns and reviews completed work to verify accuracy, quality, and adherence to professional standards. Trains, coaches, mentors, and motivates staff. Anticipates potential problems, issues, and opportunities; researches and recommends solutions within defined policies. May develop creative recommendations for solving problems.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– Typically oversees at least 2 full–time direct reports or equivalent team of part–time and/or student workers (for Professional track, performs work at the Senior Professional level or higher)

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices
– Monitors and tracks budgets for specific area and/or grant(s)
– May assist in planning and forecasting budgets

Problem Solving:

– Encounters moderately complex problems
– Applies general precedents and practices and specialized knowledge and skills to resolve problems
– Understands benefits, limitations and impact of potential solutions
– Anticipates potential problems and recommends possible solutions within general guidelines

Independence of Action:

– Works independently on moderately complex work assignments, reviews progress, and evaluates results
– Organizes work of direct reports and sets team priorities
– Reviews the work of others to verify accuracy, quality, and adherence to professional standards

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally within working unit and the University
– Communicates with external audiences for scheduling/coordination
– May communicate with external audiences for business purposes
– Collaborates closely with team members; may interact with other staff outside of area
– Utilizes a communication style that is appropriate for a given situation
– Interprets and communicates information, ideas and instructions clearly, accurately and persuasively both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution

• Comp Grade – 13
• Minimum – $86,300.00
• MidPoint – $107,900.00
• Maximum – $129,500.00