Mushroom Research Center Research Coordinator

Research Coordinator

The Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology is seeking a Research Coordinator to design, plan, and oversee the daily operations of mushroom cultivation at the Mushroom Research Center. The successful candidate will assist and facilitate research activities, communicating effectively with researchers to schedule growing room usage and coordinate crop timelines. This position provides assistance with planning, execution, and administration of complex research projects, including experimental design, data management and analysis, compliance, timelines, and financial management, while serving as the primary point of contact for faculty leadership, sponsors, and institutional partners, to ensure long-term sustainability of research programs.

Position Summary:

The Mushroom Research Center Research Coordinator oversees the daily operations of mushroom cultivation and assists in research activities. This position is responsible for maintaining supplies, coordinating the use of the growing rooms, directing cultivation processes, and ensuring that facilities and equipment are functioning effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee mushroom cultivation activities, including crop setup, maintenance, and monitoring using established procedures.
• Support composting operations with a basic understanding of compost preparation and management.
• Organize and maintain inventory of supplies; coordinate purchasing to ensure uninterrupted research and production activities.
• Communicate effectively with researchers to schedule growing room usage and coordinate crop timelines.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as forklifts, skid-steers, and dumpster trucks in a safe and efficient manner.
• Assist with basic facility management, including identifying issues and coordinating with Office of Physical Plant (OPP) staff for repairs to heating and cooling systems.
• Utilize and support software systems used to monitor and manage mushroom growth parameters.

Work Environment: This position involves working in indoor growing rooms, composting areas, and research facilities. Duties may include physical labor and operating machinery.

Qualifications:

• Comprehensive knowledge of mushroom cultivation and substrate preparation processes, primarily for Agaricus button mushrooms but other mushroom species or mycelium products.
• Possess strong organizational and communication skills (both oral and written).
• Exemplary interpersonal skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and accurately.
• Able to work independently as well as be part of a team.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate agricultural and facility equipment.
• Familiarity with building systems and willingness to coordinate maintenance needs.
• Basic computer skills and experience with cultivation or environmental control software preferred.

Preferred Attributes:

• Be computer literate, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong time-management skills.
• Willingness to support a dynamic research environment.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Research Project Manager - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree; 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

If filled as Research Project Manager - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree; No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 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 $59,580.00 - $94,980.00.

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.