Lab Technician

Lesaffre North America; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

401k plan

Paid holidays

Vacation & sick time

Life insurance

Job summary

Lesaffre North America seeks a Lab Technician to perform microbiological and chemical analyses of yeast and raw materials. You will prepare cultures, follow procedures, and record results meticulously while maintaining lab safety and equipment.

The role reports to the Laboratory Supervisor and requires adaptability to a Thursday-Sunday night shift. Candidates should have an associate degree in microbiology or chemistry, with preferred lab experience and basic Excel skills.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field required.
• Some chemistry/microbiology lab experience preferred.
• Proficient in Excel or basic data handling.

Responsibilities

• Conduct microbiological analysis of samples and prepare pure yeast cultures.
• Perform chemical and physical analyses of raw materials and yeast.
• Record results accurately in logbooks and follow procedures.
• Maintain equipment and lab cleanliness; assist in sample preparation.

Skills

Lab techniques

Data recording

Education

Associate degree in Microbiology or Chemistry

Tools

Risograph

Spectrophotometer

pH meter

Centrifuge

Thermometer

Job description

Location

RSYC Cedar Rapids
950 60th Ave SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 54204, USA

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-Sunday, 9p-7a.

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 test 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.
• Maintain equipment 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 supplies including: 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 supply of needed solutions; prepares these solutions.
• Performs tests accurately and consistently, following procedures and performing tests in the sameway 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.

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.