Yeast Lab Technician — Microbiology & Quality Analysis

Lesaffre North America; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage (Day one)

401k with match

Paid holidays

Vacation & sick time

Life insurance & Disability

Job summary

Lesaffre North America is seeking a Lab Technician in Cedar Rapids, IA to perform chemical and physical analyses of raw materials and yeast, and to conduct microbiological testing in-process and on finished products. You will work under the Laboratory Supervisor and collaborate with production, maintenance and operations teams to ensure accurate results.

The role requires an Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry or Food Science, or equivalent experience; a Bachelor’s degree is preferred.

Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field required.
• Bachelor’s degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred.
• Chemistry and/or Microbiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge is helpful, particularly the use of Microsoft Excel.
• Must be able to prioritize and organize tasks during the day.
• May require repeat analysis if unsure or have unusual results.
• Decisions to repeat tests may be made independently or directed by supervisor.
• Technicians must be able to follow written procedures, be organized, precise, observant, efficient, and capable of working with minimal supervision.
• Must be able to perform several tasks simultaneously while maintaining accurate timing and procedures for each task.
• Must be detail oriented and safety minded.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates unwavering commitment to safety-first culture by following safety protocols.
• Conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for fermentations.
• Tests including nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, sugar, and others following procedures and recording results.
• Conducts chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, in-process and finished product.
• Tests yeast activity using Risograph.
• Follows written procedures to conduct tests on dough using different yeast lots or types.
• Maintains equipment and work area, including cleaning and calibration of equipment and keeping records.
• Prepares chemical solutions and ensures processing area is stocked with needed solutions.
• Performs tests accurately and consistently, following procedures.

Skills

Safety minded

Attention to detail

Multi-tasking

Follow procedures

Education

Associate Degree in Microbiology/Chemistry/Food Science

Bachelor’s degree or 2 years chemistry lab experience (preferred)

Tools

Excel

Risograph

Job description

Lesaffre North America is seeking a Lab Technician in Cedar Rapids, IA to perform chemical and physical analyses of raw materials and yeast, and to conduct microbiological testing in-process and on finished products. You will work under the Laboratory Supervisor and collaborate with production, maintenance and operations teams to ensure accurate results.

The role requires an Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry or Food Science, or equivalent experience; a Bachelor’s degree is preferred.