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Professional Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do professional level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional level in the United States is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional level?

Professional level jobs are positions that typically require specialized knowledge, advanced education, or significant experience in a particular field. These roles often demand a bachelor's degree or higher, and may also require certifications or licensure. Professional level jobs include careers such as engineers, accountants, lawyers, and managers. They usually offer higher responsibility, autonomy, and compensation compared to entry-level positions. Advancement in these roles often depends on expertise, performance, and continued professional development.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect at the professional level, and how do they differ from entry-level roles?

At the professional level, you will generally be expected to manage more complex projects, demonstrate a higher degree of autonomy, and contribute to strategic decision-making within your team or department. You may be responsible for mentoring junior staff, leading cross-functional initiatives, and providing specialized expertise in your area. The work environment often involves collaborative problem-solving and greater accountability for project outcomes. Compared to entry-level roles, professional-level positions typically offer more opportunities for leadership, innovation, and career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional level employee, and why are they important?

To thrive at the professional level, you generally need a relevant degree, strong expertise in your field, and a proven track record of achievement. Familiarity with industry-standard software, project management tools, or certifications (such as PMP, CPA, or Six Sigma) is often required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills help professionals distinguish themselves within their organizations. These competencies enable professionals to deliver results, drive team success, and adapt to evolving business challenges.

What cities are hiring for Professional Level jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Level job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Level jobs?

The most popular types of Level jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Level jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Level jobs include:

Infographic showing various Professional Level job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,863 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Research Technologist-Professional Level

University Park, PA • On-site


Penn State University
51 - 200 employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 622 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$36K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

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.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

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 laboratory of Dr. Santhosh Girirajan at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a motivated Research Technologist (Professional) to support an active research program focused on understanding the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders using human genetics, mouse models, and cell culture models.
The successful candidate will assist with human subjects sample collection, perform cell culture and molecular biology techniques, and support mouse husbandry, including genotyping and colony management. Responsibilities also include biological sample processing and general laboratory operations such as maintaining laboratory organization, managing inventories, ordering supplies, and ensuring compliance with institutional biosafety requirements.
Applicants should have a bachelor's degree with relevant laboratory experience and the ability to work effectively in a research setting. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and capable of working both independently and as part of a team. Prior experience with cell culture, molecular biology techniques, mouse handling, or human-subjects research is preferred.
Penn State offers a supportive and collaborative research environment, access to outstanding core facilities, and a strong commitment to professional development. Salary and benefits will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's DegreeNo prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.Required Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired 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 $36,888.00 - $58,836.00.
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.
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.
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