APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Straw Lab at Penn State University in University Park, PA, invites applications for an Advanced Professional Research Technologist – Plant Sciences to support the Turfgrass Science program and the Center for Sports Surface Research. This position plays a critical leadership role in designing, coordinating, and executing complex field and laboratory research to advance sustainable turfgrass management and improve the functionality of sports fields and golf courses. The incumbent will provide high-level oversight of research activities, data interpretation, outreach, and personnel, while implementing strategic initiatives and evaluating research impact.
Primary Duties:
Strategic Research Management and Execution
- Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of advanced turfgrass field and laboratory research trials.
- Oversee complex experimental setups, integrating new technologies to address evolving research needs.
- Perform in-depth data analysis and synthesize findings to inform science-based management recommendations.
Technology Integration and Infrastructure Oversight
- Maintain, evaluate, and implement new research technologies and instrumentation.
- Manage the calibration and performance of laboratory and field-based equipment.
- Develop standard operating procedures for data acquisition, quality control, and sensor maintenance.
Fiscal Oversight and Resource Allocation
- Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and validate procurement for research materials and equipment.
- Forecast and allocate resources to support long-term research objectives and stakeholder-driven priorities.
Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach Strategy
- Coordinate and deliver outreach programs to communicate research findings to stakeholders across industry, government, and academia.
- Serve as a liaison to local and national turfgrass associations and industry collaborators to support external engagement and impact.
Education and Instructional Support
- Develop instructional content, assist in teaching Turfgrass Soils courses, and contribute to training programs for students, interns, and professionals.
- Mentor undergraduate and graduate students and participate in curriculum and program development related to turfgrass science.
Team Leadership and Personnel Supervision
- Supervise and mentor part-time, student, and temporary employees engaged in research and lab work.
- Provide leadership in staff development, task prioritization, and adherence to safety and compliance standards.
- May serve as an indirect supervisor or mentor to full-time employees and participate in hiring decisions.
Professional Development and Representation
- Represent the lab at national conferences, workshops, and scientific meetings.
- Stay informed on current research trends and regulatory requirements in turfgrass and environmental management.
- Contribute to proposal writing and may serve as a co-investigator on grant-funded projects.
Education and Experience Requirements:
Required Education
- Bachelor’s degree in turfgrass science, plant sciences, environmental science, or a closely related field.
Preferred Education
- Master’s degree in turfgrass science or a related discipline.
Required Experience
- Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in turfgrass management, applied field research, or teaching.
- Demonstrated ability to lead projects independently and coordinate cross-functional teams.
Preferred Experience
- 4–7 years in turfgrass management, with emphasis in sports field or golf course systems.
- Experience integrating sensor-based technologies and supervising research personnel.
- Prior involvement in educational program development or teaching is highly valued.
Additional Requirements:
- Industry certifications (e.g., Certified Sports Field Manager, GCSAA Class A) are beneficial.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $42,100.00 - $61,000.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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