Agricultural Sciences Agricultural Services Extension Programs
Management Professional Supervisory
Penn State Job Catalog
Agricultural and Environmental Lab Technologist – Senior Supervisor (PSU2522)
Job Summary and Representative Duties
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 Matrix
- 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
Salary Structure
- Comp Grade – 8
- Minimum – $51,000.00
- MidPoint – $62,500.00
- Maximum – $74,000.00