Education Program Specialist (Field Research & Outreach)

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

15d • $51,000 - $74,000

About The Position

Interested in joining a dynamic lab that conducts research across different cropping systems using advanced technologies? The Esker Laboratory in the Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a motivated candidate to join our team as an Education Program Specialist . This person will lead our field research program, which includes small-plot research conducted on university research farms, as well as on-farm large-scale research in collaboration with grower cooperators. The candidate will also collaborate with industry partners to establish field research trials and contribute to extension activities, including writing extension articles, presenting talks, attending extension and industry meetings, and collaborating on the development of new extension materials. Furthermore, the candidate is expected to supervise and mentor field researchers in the lab group and provide training on field equipment, as required. Travel is expected around Pennsylvania and occasionally outside of the state.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Strong knowledge of plant pathology and field crop production
• Experience in field research design and data collection
• Familiarity with statistical software such as SAS or R
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

• An advanced degree (MSc or PhD)
• The ability to work with precision planting, sprayer, and harvest equipment

Responsibilities

• Lead field research program, including small-plot research on university research farms and on-farm large-scale research with grower cooperators.
• Collaborate with industry partners to establish field research trials.
• Contribute to extension activities, including writing extension articles, presenting talks, attending extension and industry meetings, and collaborating on the development of new extension materials.
• Supervise and mentor field researchers in the lab group and provide training on field equipment, as required.
• Travel around Pennsylvania and occasionally outside of the state.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees