Fermentation Process R&D Technician

IFF; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 56,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision and dental insurance

Parental leave (up to 16 weeks)

Bonus and 401k

Job summary

IFF is seeking a Process Research and Development Technician for on-site work in Palo Alto, CA, supporting small-scale fermentation using standardized testing procedures. You will perform routine testing, record results, and help maintain safe, reliable laboratory operations.

The role involves monitoring fermentations, operating bioreactors, media prep, and basic troubleshooting, with collaboration among technicians, engineers and scientists. Day shift 6 a.m.–2 p.m.; on-site work only.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years hands-on lab experience in fermentation or aseptic techniques.
• Ability to follow written and verbal procedures with support when needed.
• Ability to record results clearly and identify when a procedure may need review.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to collaborate with technicians, engineers and scientists.
• Basic computer skills; willingness to learn lab/process-control systems.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and wear lab PPE.

Responsibilities

• Monitor microbial fermentations in small-scale laboratory vessels.
• Operate and maintain fermentation bioreactors following procedures and documentation.
• Prepare media and support routine lab setup for fermentation operations.
• Perform tank cleaning, maintenance and basic troubleshooting per procedures.
• Monitor processes for contamination and document observations.
• Conduct routine tests using lab equipment and defined methods.
• Carry out prescribed calculations using established formulas and data.
• Collect samples and perform analytical processing as required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement focused on safety, quality, service, and equipment reliability.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Written communication

Verbal communication

Team collaboration

Basic computer skills

Lift up to 50 lbs

Education

Associate or bachelor’s degree in scientific/engineering/technical field

Tools

Process-control systems

Laboratory equipment

Job description

IFF is seeking a Process Research and Development Technician for on-site work in Palo Alto, CA, supporting small-scale fermentation using standardized testing procedures. You will perform routine testing, record results, and help maintain safe, reliable laboratory operations.

The role involves monitoring fermentations, operating bioreactors, media prep, and basic troubleshooting, with collaboration among technicians, engineers and scientists. Day shift 6 a.m.–2 p.m.; on-site work only.