Research Technologist - Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory; ECAL

Research Technologist
- Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory (ECAL)
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 Penn State Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory (ECAL) seeks a detail-oriented Research Technologist to support sample processing and instrumental analysis of contaminants of emerging concern and legacy contaminants. This position will be filled at the Core Research Technologist
- Professional level.

This role includes operating and maintaining sample preparation equipment, managing laboratory supplies and waste, and assisting with analytical tasks as directed by the ECAL supervisor and the laboratory team.

The successful candidate must possess, or be willing to complete basic laboratory safety training.

Key Responsibilities:

• Receive, log, and track environmental samples; verify chain of custody, labeling, and documentation.
• Prepare samples according to SOPs using contamination‑controlled workflows (e.g., clean benches, fiber‑free PPE, glass and metal labware).
• Perform sample preparation techniques appropriate to the matrix and contaminant, including weighing, extractions, digestions, density separation, filtration, and rinse/recovery steps.
• Manage and document process blanks, positive controls, and spiked recovery standards, including deviations and corrective actions.
• Operate, maintain, and monitor sample preparation equipment (e.g., analytical balances, extraction systems, centrifuges, sonicators, vacuum manifolds, ovens/desiccators, density separation apparatus, and filtration systems).
• Conduct glassware decontamination and preparation following laboratory SOPs.
• Assist with laboratory supply ordering, consumables tracking, and laboratory waste management to support ongoing workflows.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

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 $38,300.00 - $55,500.00.

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 .

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 .

Penn State 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.

Company The Pennsylvania State University