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.

Agricultural and Environmental Lab

The Agricultural and Environmental Lab Technologist provides analytical services to clients; determines appropriate testing methods to meet client needs; prepares and analyzes samples and batch reports; ensures quality control criteria are met; generates client reports with test results and interpretation. 

• Execute and facilitate components of a specific analytical testing program, including sample analysis planning and reporting, test methods, quality control documentation and proficiency testing, and client consultation

• Receive, prepare, and analyze samples for specialized services, including soil, media, water, plant, manure, compost, or biosolids testing programs; evaluate and assess samples to ensure quality

• Determine the appropriate analysis methods based on sample characteristics and client needs; schedule the analysis plan to meet deadline requirements

• Perform tests specific to designated program; interpret results; document samples and results; generate reports to summarize results; review reports for accuracy

• Review analytical results and ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality control criteria have been met; perform continual quality control audits and proficiency testing to ensure consistency and compliance

• Communicate with clients regarding available services, analytical procedures and capabilities, and test results

• Ensure optimal function of laboratory instruments; maintain inventory; order supplies; prepare reagents and analytical standards

• May serve as laboratory safety officer; oversee safety inspections, training requirements, and best practices related to hazardous materials

• May supervise staff members, including hiring, training, 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