Yeast Lab Technician - Microbiology & Quality Analysis

Red Star Yeast Company LLC; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Day one healthcare coverage (Medical,

401k with 4% match

11 paid holidays

Vacation & sick time

Job summary

Lesaffre's Red Star Yeast team in Cedar Rapids, IA, is seeking a Lab Technician to perform microbiological and chemical analyses of raw materials and yeast, supporting quality and process control in a fast-paced lab environment.

The role reports to the Laboratory Supervisor and collaborates with Production and Maintenance teams; shift is Thursday–Monday, 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., with emphasis on safety and precise testing procedures.

Qualifications

• Associate degree is required.
• Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred.
• Chemistry and/or Microbiology lab experience through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge, especially Excel, is helpful.
• Ability to prioritize and organize tasks during the day.
• May require repeat analysis if results are unusual.

Responsibilities

• Conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for fermentations.
• Tests include nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, sugar, and other metrics following written procedures.
• Performs chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, in-process and finished products.
• Tests yeast activity using Risograph.
• Maintains lab equipment and clean, orderly work area; calibrates as needed.
• Prepares chemical solutions and ensures lab stocks.
• Performs tests consistently to provide accurate results.
• Completes bi-annual proficiency tests.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safety minded

Organized

Time management

Education

Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field

Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience

Tools

Excel

Job description

Lesaffre's Red Star Yeast team in Cedar Rapids, IA, is seeking a Lab Technician to perform microbiological and chemical analyses of raw materials and yeast, supporting quality and process control in a fast-paced lab environment.

The role reports to the Laboratory Supervisor and collaborates with Production and Maintenance teams; shift is Thursday–Monday, 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., with emphasis on safety and precise testing procedures.