Sr Technician I, Process R&D

IFF; Wilmington (DE); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

IFF, a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and biosciences, seeks a fermentation-focused laboratory professional in Wilmington, DE. This on-site role supports research, development and manufacturing initiatives within Health & Biosciences.

You will perform fermentation experiments, prepare media, operate bioreactors, collect data, and maintain rigorous records while adhering to safety and quality standards. Collaboration across shifts and projects is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, chemical engineering or related physical science.
• Associate degree with laboratory/manufacturing experience acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct lab-scale fermentation experiments using microorganisms and bioreactor systems.
• Prepare seed cultures, media, reagents for fermentation studies and process development.
• Operate, monitor and control fermentation equipment with supervision systems.
• Collect and analyze fermentation samples following established procedures.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and data per documentation standards.
• Clean and maintain bioreactors and lab equipment for readiness.
• Follow SOPs, safety requirements, and quality guidelines.

Skills

Team collaboration

Strong communication

Documentation

Laboratory safety

Equipment operation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology/chemistry/engineering or related science

Associate degree with relevant lab experience

Job description

Job Summary

Are you ready to apply your fermentation and laboratory skills to help advance innovative biotechnology solutions? IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health and biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products. Within our Health & Biosciences business, we harness the power of biotechnology to create innovative and sustainable solutions across diverse industries, including animal nutrition, household and personal care, food, health and biofuels. Our teams transform scientific discoveries into scalable technologies that help customers solve complex challenges and create a positive impact. This role is based in Wilmington, Delaware, and is an on-site position. Join a collaborative, innovative and science-driven team where your work will directly support research, development and manufacturing initiatives that advance biotechnology solutions worldwide.

Where You’ll Make a Difference

• Conduct laboratory-scale fermentation experiments using microorganisms and bioreactor systems to support research, development and manufacturing objectives.
• Prepare seed cultures, media, reagents and other materials required for fermentation studies and process development.
• Operate, monitor and control fermentation equipment using supervisory control and data acquisition systems while supporting process reliability.
• Collect, process and analyze fermentation samples using established laboratory procedures and near-line analytical methods.
• Maintain accurate experimental records, observations and data in accordance with company documentation standards.
• Clean, sanitize, inspect and maintain bioreactors and associated laboratory equipment to ensure operational readiness.
• Follow standard operating procedures, safety requirements and quality guidelines while supporting continuous laboratory operations.
• Identify operational issues, communicate findings and assist with routine troubleshooting and process improvement activities.
• Collaborate across multiple projects, functions and shift teams to support successful experiment execution and effective knowledge transfer.

What Makes You the Right Fit

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, biological engineering or another relevant physical science discipline.
• Alternatively, an associate degree with relevant experience in a laboratory, manufacturing or biotechnology environment.
• Ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams while managing multiple projects and priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to support effective shift-to-shift information transfer.
• Experience following documented procedures and maintaining complete and accurate laboratory records.
• Ability to safely lift, move and transport materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to pass a respirator fit test and work safely in environments requiring personal protective equipment.
• Availability to work Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Commitment to maintaining a strong safety culture and following all laboratory, quality, environmental health and safety standards.

How Would You Stand Out?

• Two or more years of experience in microbiology, cell culture, fermentation, biotechnology or related laboratory operations.
• Commercial brewing experience or other hands-on experience operating biological production processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and experience with chemical handling, hazardous operations or mechanical troubleshooting.

Why Choose Us?

• Work alongside scientists and engineers advancing industrial biotechnology and sustainable innovation.
• Contribute to projects supporting global markets, including food, health, personal care and biofuels.
• Gain hands-on experience with fermentation systems and advanced laboratory technologies.
• Collaborate within a diverse and inclusive global organization committed to scientific excellence.
• Access professional development and career growth opportunities across research, development and manufacturing.
• Make a meaningful impact by helping create solutions that benefit people and the planet.

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more