Penn State Job Catalog

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

The Research Technologist - Plant Sciences examines, tests, and diagnoses plant disease; communicates diagnosis and disease management information to clients. This position also manages laboratory facilities, budgets, and personnel.

• Responsible for the identification of plant diseases; direct best practices regarding the analysis and diagnosis of samples submitted to the clinic
• Perform literature reviews and synthesis; attend scientific meetings and workshops
• Communicate diagnosis and disease management strategies to extension personnel, commercial growers, and homeowners in Pennsylvania
• Implement strategic goals and processes aimed at improving the quality of diagnostic and educational services; evaluate current methods and recommend solutions
• Research, evaluate, and implement new technologies
• Develop educational materials; provide instruction to students, diagnosticians, extension educators, and others
• Assess educational needs; develop and manage educational programs and resources
• Serve as primary investigator; apply for funding and manage the clinic budget
• Hire, train, supervise, and develop personnel

Level:

– Advanced Professional

Base Description:

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

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates proficient and comprehensive knowledge of defined skill areas/applications. Applies knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures of a particular field to decision-making and problem–solving. Works under minimum supervision on varied and sometimes difficult work assignments, conferring with supervisor or subject matter experts on unusual matters. May lead others or a team in completion of complex assignments. Interprets and communicates information clearly, accurately, and persuasively. Researches and tries new approaches when solving difficult or novel problems.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– Indirect supervisor or mentor for other full–time employees
– May serve as direct supervisor for part–time, student, and/or temporary workers, volunteers, or a full–time employee

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices
– May monitor/track budgets and funding

Problem Solving:

– Encounters generally routine problems with progressively more complex and/or varied problems
– Typically follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
– May apply specialized knowledge and skills to resolve complex and/or varied problems, with supervisor oversight
– Researches and tries new approaches when solving problems

Independence of Action:

– Works with minimal supervision on more difficult work assignments, conferring with supervisor on unusual matters
– Follows precedents and procedures
– May set priorities and organize work within general guidelines established by supervisor

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally and externally within working unit and the University
– May communicate with external audiences for business purposes
– Promotes open communication in a manner that builds relationships among team members
– Applies appropriate strategies for managing conflict; negotiate reasonable compromises; propose and evaluate possible solutions
– Interprets and communicates information, ideas and instructions clearly, accurately and persuasively both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution

• Comp Grade – 6
• Minimum – $42,100.00
• MidPoint – $51,600.00
• Maximum – $61,000.00