Instrumentation Technician: Fermentation & Process Control

International Flavors and Fragrances

Palo Alto (CA)

On-site

USD 48,216 - 57,859

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Overtime eligibility

Competitive hourly pay

Career growth opportunities

Employee development

Job summary

International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) seeks a technically skilled technician to maintain and optimize advanced process systems in a bioscience setting. You will calibrate instrumentation, troubleshoot control systems, and support PLC/HMI platforms within a cutting-edge environment.

The role involves working with lab-scale and pilot-scale fermentation equipment, interpreting schematics, and performing preventive maintenance.

Qualifications

1–3 years of experience in process instrumentation troubleshooting, repair, and calibration.
AA/AS in Electrical, Electronic, or Instrumentation Technologies or equivalent training.
Practical experience with process equipment and basic mechanical systems.
Ability to read and interpret technical diagrams and schematics.
Strong troubleshooting skills across instrumentation and control systems.
Effective communication skills and ability to organize and prioritize work independently.
Flexibility to work alternative shifts, overtime, and on‑call schedules when needed.
Experience in laboratory or fermentation process environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

Calibrate and maintain a wide range of process equipment, including electronic and pneumatic devices.
Troubleshoot and repair control systems, including control loops (0–10 VDC and 4–20 mA), electrical and electronic systems, and process instrumentation.
Support maintenance and troubleshooting of systems using PLC platforms (Rockwell, Siemens, GE/Emerson) and HMI/SCADA tools.
Interpret and work with Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID) and electrical schematics.
Operate and maintain process equipment across lab-scale fermentation systems with potential exposure to pilot-scale operations.
Perform preventive electrical and mechanical maintenance on process equipment.
Diagnose and resolve issues across electrical, pneumatic, electronic, and mechanical systems.
Maintain accurate records, follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Bills of Materials (BOMs), and use MS Office tools for documentation and reporting.