Fermentation Microbiologist – Aseptic Process Expert

Prairie AquaTech; Volga Township (SD); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek in Volga, South Dakota, is seeking a Microbiologist to join the Fermentation team. You will prepare sterile seed cultures, monitor culture purity, and ensure data accuracy for process control.

The role emphasizes safety, precisely following SOPs, operating with lab equipment, and contributing to process improvements through daily data analysis.

Qualifications

• BS or AS degree in a science/engineering field.
• Authorized to work in the United States; no visa sponsorship provided by Houdek.
• Experience in microbiology and aseptic technique preferred.

Responsibilities

• Respect safety-first culture and adhere to health and safety procedures.
• Prepare sterile seed cultures from lab to production scale per SOPs.
• Evaluate culture purity, growth, and quality in seed train and fermentation.
• Monitor equipment and operate per instructions; use distributed control system.
• Maintain and clean equipment; log and report maintenance needs.
• Record accurate process data; complete log entries and shift reports.
• Communicate with production teams to support processes and improvements.
• Complete LMS and field trainings; pass proficiency tests as required.

Skills

Microbiology

Aseptic technique

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Time management

Troubleshooting

Education

BS in science-related field

Associate degree in science/engineering

Tools

Microscopes

Laboratory equipment familiarity

Job description

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek in Volga, South Dakota, is seeking a Microbiologist to join the Fermentation team. You will prepare sterile seed cultures, monitor culture purity, and ensure data accuracy for process control.

The role emphasizes safety, precisely following SOPs, operating with lab equipment, and contributing to process improvements through daily data analysis.