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:

– 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