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

Lesaffre Corporation; Cedar Rapids, Northern (IA, KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Day one healthcare coverage (Medical, 

401k with 4% match

11 paid holidays

Vacation and sick time

Job summary

Lesaffre Corporation in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking a Lab Technician to perform microbiological and chemical analyses of raw materials, yeast, and finished products. The role requires following established procedures, maintaining lab equipment, and preparing solutions while supporting production teams.

The candidate will conduct tests (nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, sugar, etc.), manage records, and ensure accuracy and safety in a fast-paced lab environment. Shift is Thu–Mon, 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field required.
• Chemistry and/or Microbiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge is helpful, particularly the use of Microsoft Excel.
• Must be able to follow written procedures, be organized, precise, observant, efficient, and capable of working with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Conduct microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for fermentations.
• Conduct chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, in-process and finished product.
• Test yeast activity using Risograph.
• Maintain equipment and work area, including cleaning/calibration and record-keeping.
• Prepare chemical solutions and ensure lab area is stocked with needed supplies.
• Perform tests accurately and consistently following procedures.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Laboratory know-how

Education

Associate degree in Microbiology or Chemistry

Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry lab experience preferred

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

RSYC Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids, IA 54204, USA

Description

Who we are:

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. 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 to 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 toLesaffre'ssafety-first culture by strictly following all safety protocols andparticipatingin required safety programs
• Conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for use in fermentations.
• Conducts test including nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, percentage of Buds, dry matters, sugar, brix, following written procedures, calculatingresultsand recording inappropriatelogbooks.
• Conducts chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, both in-process and finished product.
• Testsyeast for activity using Risograph.
• Follows written procedures to conduct tests onvarious typesof dough using different yeast lots or types.
• Maintainsequipment and general work area including the following: cleaning and calibration of equipment, 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 suppliesincluding: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 processingareas.
• Ensures thatprocessingarea is stocked withsupplyof needed solutions; prepares these solutions.
• Performs tests accurately and consistently, following procedures and performing tests inthe sameway each day to provideaccurateresults.
• Completion of bi-annualproficiencytests.
• Other duties as assigned

Required qualifications:

• Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, FoodScienceor related fieldrequired.
• Bachelor'sdegree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred
• Chemistry and/orMicrobiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge is helpful, particularlythe useof Microsoft Excel.
• This position requiresthe abilityto 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.
• Techniciansmust 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 whilemaintainingaccuratetiming 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.