Technician II, Process R&D

IFF; Wilmington (DE); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

IFF in Wilmington, Delaware is seeking a laboratory-scale fermentation specialist to conduct experiments using microorganisms and bioreactor systems in support of R&D and manufacturing. You will prepare cultures, operate SCADA-controlled equipment, collect samples, record data, and troubleshoot with safety SOPs.

This on-site role requires collaboration across multiple shifts. The successful candidate will hold a relevant science degree or equivalent experience, demonstrate strong communication,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, or related physical science.
• Alternate: an Associate degree with relevant lab/manufacturing experience.
• Ability to work on multiple projects and shifts with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication to support shift transfers.
• Experience following SOPs and maintaining lab records.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory-scale fermentation experiments using microorganisms and bioreactor systems.
• Prepare seed cultures, media, reagents, and materials for fermentation studies.
• Operate and monitor fermentation equipment, including SCADA systems.
• Collect, process, and analyze fermentation samples.
• Maintain accurate experimental records per company standards.
• Clean and maintain bioreactors and lab equipment.
• Follow SOPs, safety requirements, and quality guidelines.
• Collaborate across projects and shifts to ensure successful experiments.

Skills

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Laboratory techniques

Safety awareness

Hands-on troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology/Chemistry/Engineering

Associate degree with relevant experience

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

Job Summary

Conduct laboratory-scale fermentation experiments utilizing microorganisms and bioreactor systems to support research, development, and manufacturing initiatives. Operate, monitor, and maintain fermentation equipment; prepare cultures and materials; collect and process samples; and record experimental observations and data. Follow established SOPs and safety requirements while working independently and collaboratively across multiple projects and shifts. Identify operational issues, communicate findings, and assist with routine troubleshooting and process improvement efforts.

At IFF , we are a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products.

Within our Health & Biosciences (H&B) 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 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 directly supports 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 materials required for fermentation studies and process development.
• Operate, monitor, and control fermentation equipment through supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems while ensuring 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 (SOPs), safety requirements, and quality guidelines while supporting continuous laboratory operations.
• Identify operational issues, communicate findings to team members, and assist with troubleshooting and process improvement activities.
• Collaborate effectively across multiple projects, functions, and shift teams to ensure successful experiment execution and knowledge transfer.

What Makes You the Right Fit

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, or another physical science discipline.
• Alternatively, an Associate degree with relevant experience in laboratory, manufacturing, or biotechnology environments.
• Ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams across multiple projects and priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to support shift-to-shift information transfer.
• Experience following documented procedures and maintaining 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 on our shifts: Multiple Shifts available, willingness to work a weekend schedule (Friday through Monday, 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or rotating shift (Monday through Friday 6:30a.m. to 2:30p.m. (3weeks), 2:00p.m. to 10:00p.m. (3weeks).
• Commitment to maintaining a strong safety culture and adhering to all laboratory and 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 familiarity with chemical handling, hazardous operations, or mechanical troubleshooting.

Why Choose Us?

• Work with leading scientists and engineers advancing industrial biotechnology and sustainable innovation.
• Contribute to projects that support global markets including food, health, personal care, and biofuels.
• Gain hands-on experience operating 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 functions.
• 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