Sr Technician I, Process R&D

Nutrition & Biosciences USA 4, Inc; Wilmington (DE); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

IFF is seeking a candidate to join our Wilmington, Delaware team as a fermentation-focused laboratory professional. The role supports research, development and manufacturing through fermentation studies, culture preparation, equipment operation and data analysis in a fast-paced lab environment.

The position emphasizes safety, SOP adherence, and collaboration across shifts and projects to drive robust process development and knowledge transfer across our biotechnology platforms.

Qualifications

• 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 up to 50 pounds and pass a respirator fit test.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory-scale fermentation experiments using microorganisms and bioreactor systems.
• Prepare seed cultures, media, reagents and other materials for fermentation studies.
• Operate, monitor and control fermentation equipment and collect samples for analysis.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and data.
• Clean, sanitize and maintain bioreactors and lab equipment.
• Communicate findings and assist with troubleshooting and process improvement.
• Collaborate across projects and shift teams to support knowledge transfer.

Skills

Fermentation

Bioprocess

Laboratory documentation

Team collaboration

Verbal & written communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in life sciences

Associate degree with related 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

At IFF, we make joy through science, creativity and heart.

As the global leader in flavours, fragrances, food ingredients, health and biosciences, we deliver groundbreaking, sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products – advancing wellness, delighting the senses and enhancing the human experience. We value an inclusive, creative workplace where all individuals can thrive and do their best work.

We consider all qualified candidates equally and based on merit, without regard to religion, ethnicity, national origin, race, age, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or disability.