Weekend Lab Supervisor

International Flavors and Fragrances; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 94,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Retirement match

Paid time off

Training & development

Wellness program

Job summary

IFF in Palo Alto, California, is seeking a weekend fermentation technician to lead and develop a small team of non-exempt staff. The role is onsite and focused on safe, compliant bioprocessing and fermentation support within our Health & Biosciences network.

You will perform batching, inoculation, sampling and cleaning, partner with scientists, engineers and operations to execute research and development projects, troubleshoot processes, maintain lab equipment, and drive continuous improvement

Qualifications

• Associates or Bachelors in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, biotechnology or related field.
• Fundamental understanding of fermentation or bioprocessing principles.
• Experience in lab, pilot plant or manufacturing settings.

Responsibilities

• Direct manager of a weekend shift, leading non-exempt fermentation technicians.
• Safely conduct fermentation support activities: batching, inoculating, sampling, vessel cleaning.
• Partner with scientists, engineers and operations to execute R&D projects.
• Assist with troubleshooting and root cause analysis for fermentation and downstream processing.
• Maintain lab equipment and ensure safety, quality and environmental standards.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and technology transfer activities.

Skills

Fermentation

Bioprocessing

Lab experience

Data analysis

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related technical field

Tools

Microsoft Office

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: 65.513,00-93.590,00USD