Mushroom Research Operations Lead

Penn State Lady Lions; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

75% tuition discount

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

The Mushroom Research Center at Penn State is seeking a Research Coordinator to design, plan, and oversee the daily operations of mushroom cultivation and assist in research activities. You will coordinate growing room usage, manage supplies, and ensure facilities and equipment operate effectively to support ongoing programs.

Responsibilities include scheduling crop timelines, data management, compliance, budget coordination, and serving as the main contact for faculty leadership, sponsors, and

Qualifications

• Knowledge of mushroom cultivation and substrate preparation, primarily Agaricus button mushrooms.
• Strong organizational and written/oral communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team.
• Attention to detail and multitasking ability.
• Ability to work independently and with others.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate equipment.
• Familiarity with building systems and coordinating maintenance.
• Basic computer skills; experience with cultivation software preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee mushroom cultivation activities and equipment.
• Support composting operations and substrate management.
• Organize inventory and coordinate purchasing for research activities.
• Schedule growing room usage and coordinate crop timelines with researchers.
• Operate and maintain equipment safely and efficiently.
• Coordinate with OPP staff for repairs to facilities and systems.
• Use software systems to monitor mushroom growth parameters.

Skills

Mushroom cultivation knowledge

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Driver's license

Equipment operation

Building systems familiarity

Computer skills

Education

Master's Degree

1+ years relevant experience

Tools

Cultivation/environmental control software

Job description

The Mushroom Research Center at Penn State is seeking a Research Coordinator to design, plan, and oversee the daily operations of mushroom cultivation and assist in research activities. You will coordinate growing room usage, manage supplies, and ensure facilities and equipment operate effectively to support ongoing programs.

Responsibilities include scheduling crop timelines, data management, compliance, budget coordination, and serving as the main contact for faculty leadership, sponsors, and