Weekend Lab Supervisor

IFF; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

IFF, a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences, is seeking a fermentation technician for the Palo Alto onsite shift. You will oversee a weekend team, perform fermentation support tasks, and collaborate with cross-functional groups on development and manufacturing projects.

The role emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced biotech environment; a technical degree and lab experience are required, with a schedule Fri–Sun, 6:00

Qualifications

• Associates of Science or bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Engineering or related field.
• Fundamental understanding of fermentation, bioprocessing or biotechnology principles.
• Experience in a lab, pilot plant or manufacturing environment through internships or projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to interpret technical data.
• Knowledge of process control concepts, statistics and experimental design.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data analysis tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Commitment to safe work practices and quality standards.
• Availability to work Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Responsibilities

• Directly manage a weekend fermentation shift and mentor a team of non-exempt technicians.
• Safely perform fermentation support activities: batching, inoculation, sampling, cleaning.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers and operations to run R&D projects.
• Assist with troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for fermentation and downstream processing.
• Maintain lab equipment and ensure safety, quality and environmental compliance.
• Contribute to continuous improvement to boost process performance and sustainability.
• Support technology transfer from development to manufacturing

Skills

Bioprocessing basics

Laboratory operations

Data analysis

Problem solving

Multi-tasking

Education

Associate of Science or Bachelor's in chemical/biochemical/biotechnology

Equivalent practical work experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Technical data analysis tools

Job description

Job Summary

Are you ready to apply your engineering skills to innovations that help create a more sustainable future?

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

Within Health & Biosciences , we channel our passion for nature and bioscience into sustainable, life-enhancing technologies that power innovative solutions across healthcare, food, consumer and industrial markets. The role is based in Palo Alto, California (onsite role).

Be part of a collaborative, innovative and solution-oriented team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration.

Where You’ll Make a Difference

• As the direct manager of a weekend shift, you’ll support the growth and development of a team of non-exempt fermentation technicians.
• Safely conduct fermentation support activities, including batching, inoculating, sampling, and vessel cleaning.
• Partner with scientists, engineers, and operations teams to execute research and development projects.
• Assist with process troubleshooting and root cause investigations for fermentation and downstream processing activities.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance process performance and sustainability.
• Support technology transfer activities from development to manufacturing environments.

What Makes You the Right Fit

• Associates of Science or bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent practical work experience.
• Fundamental understanding of fermentation, bioprocessing or biotechnology principles.
• Experience working in a laboratory, pilot plant or manufacturing environment through internships, research projects or professional experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret technical data.
• Knowledge of process control concepts, statistical analysis and experimental design.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and technical data analysis tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.
• Commitment to safe work practices and compliance with quality standards.
• Availability to work Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

How Would You Stand Out?

• Exposure to industrial biotechnology, enzyme production or microbial fermentation processes.
• Experience using data analytics, process modeling or statistical software.
• Demonstrated curiosity, adaptability and a continuous improvement mindset.

Why Choose Us?

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings program with company matching opportunities.
• Paid time off and company-recognized holidays.
• Career development, training and learning opportunities.
• Employee assistance and wellness programs.
• Collaborative environment focused on innovation, sustainability and professional growth.

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

Salary Ranges:

65.513,00ㅤ-ㅤ93.590,00ㅤUSD