Lab Technician - 1st Shift (7a-3p)

Red Star Yeast Company LLC; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Day one healthcare coverage (Medical,

401k with 4% match

11 paid holidays

Vacation & sick time

Job summary

Lesaffre's Red Star Yeast team in Cedar Rapids, IA, is seeking a Lab Technician to perform microbiological and chemical analyses of raw materials and yeast, supporting quality and process control in a fast-paced lab environment.

The role reports to the Laboratory Supervisor and collaborates with Production and Maintenance teams; shift is Thursday–Monday, 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., with emphasis on safety and precise testing procedures.

Qualifications

• Associate degree is required.
• Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred.
• Chemistry and/or Microbiology lab experience through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge, especially Excel, is helpful.
• Ability to prioritize and organize tasks during the day.
• May require repeat analysis if results are unusual.

Responsibilities

• Conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for fermentations.
• Tests include nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, sugar, and other metrics following written procedures.
• Performs chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, in-process and finished products.
• Tests yeast activity using Risograph.
• Maintains lab equipment and clean, orderly work area; calibrates as needed.
• Prepares chemical solutions and ensures lab stocks.
• Performs tests consistently to provide accurate results.
• Completes bi-annual proficiency tests.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safety minded

Organized

Time management

Education

Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field

Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience

Tools

Excel

Job description

Lesaffre is a key global player in the fermentation of microorganisms (yeasts and bacteria) for baking, taste, healthcare and industrial biotechnology. This story began more than 170 years ago in northern France, and, thanks to our pioneer spirit and our innovative approach, we are constantly developing.

Lesaffre's global presence includes 11,000 employees from 96 nationalities and a 3‑billion euro turnover. We work with customers, partners and researchers to develop essential nutrients and bio actives that strengthen human health, optimize animal well‑being and improve plant nutrition.

This role is within our Red Star Yeast team. Red Star delivers a range of high‑performing yeast and related products that empower bakers and food manufacturers to create consistent, flavorful, and high‑quality baked goods. Backed by Lesaffre and Archer Daniels Midland and supported by modern manufacturing facilities in Cedar Rapids, IA and Dothan, AL, our team blends global expertise with local reliability to bring trusted, innovative yeast solutions to the U.S. and Canadian markets.

What we offer

• Day one healthcare coverage (Medical, Dental, & Vision)
• 401k with 4% match & additional discretionary employer contribution
• 11 paid holidays
• 80 hours of vacation time and 48 hours of sick time annually
• Life insurance, AD&D, Employee Assistance Program, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and more!

What you bring to the table

The primary function of this position is to conduct chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, and/or microbiological analysis, both in‑process and finished product. This position reports to the Laboratory Supervisor and may also receive direction from the Lab Manager and Production Manager. Interfaces with processing supervisors and operators, maintenance workers and general service operators to obtain samples, explain needed maintenance in the lab, or request supplies located outside the lab. The shift schedule is Thursday‑Monday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

What you’ll do as a Lab Technician

• Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to Lesaffre's safety‑first culture by strictly following all safety protocols and participating in required safety programs.
• Conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for use in fermentations.
• Conducts tests including nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, percentage of Buds, dry matters, sugar, brix, following written procedures, calculating results and recording in appropriate logbooks.
• Conducts chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, both in‑process and finished product.
• Tests yeast for activity using Risograph.
• Follows written procedures to conduct tests on various types of dough using different yeast lots or types.
• Maintains equipment and general work area including cleaning and calibration, keeping records of maintenance performed, ensuring equipment is working properly, keeping work area clean and orderly.
• Responsible for proper use and maintenance of lab equipment and supplies: analytical balance, centrifuge, mixer, drying oven, pH meter, color meter, stir plate, lab ware, Risograph, spectrophotometer, distillation unit, mineralization units, fume hood, chemicals, incubator, water bath, thermometers, titrators, YSI 2700D, LECO and Buchi B‑339.
• Prepares chemical solutions for processing areas.
• Ensures that processing area is stocked with needed solutions; prepares these solutions.
• Performs tests accurately and consistently, following procedures and performing tests in the same way each day to provide accurate results.
• Completion of bi‑annual proficiency tests.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications

• Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field required.
• Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred.
• Chemistry and/or Microbiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge is helpful, particularly the use of Microsoft Excel.
• This position requires the ability to prioritize and organize tasks during the day.
• May require repeat analysis if unsure or have unusual results.
• Decision to repeat tests may be made independently or directed by supervisor.
• Technicians must be able to follow written procedures, be organized, precise, observant, efficient, and capable of working with minimal supervision.
• Must be able to perform several tasks simultaneously while maintaining accurate timing and procedures for each task.
• Must be detail oriented and safety minded.

Lesaffre provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.