Position

Bioprocess Lab Technician

Mission

Reporting to the Bioprocess Development Engineer, this role focuses on preparation, execution, and cleanup of fermentation and recovery experiments, as well as managing small projects and process improvements. This includes preparation of fermentation media and buffers, assembly of fermentors, sterilization of equipment, setup of centrifuges/homogenizers/filters, tear down of equipment, and cleanup of equipment and lab space. This role will also help with experiment execution, including overnight fermentation monitoring.

Key Outcomes

• Prepare fermentation media and enzyme buffers from recipes at up to the 300 L scale
• Assemble, sterilize, break down, and clean benchtop and pilot fermentors
• Troubleshoot process lab issues, such as pumps, fittings, valves
• Keep the lab clean and orderly, 5S operation (Sort/Set in Order/Shine/Standardize/Sustain)
• With training, come to operate bench top and pilot fermentors, centrifuges, and filters
• Manage lab and pilot projects, such as equipment procurement, organize third party maintenance, and process improvements

Key Competencies

Job Specific

• Benchtop or laboratory experience required
• Experience in an industrial fermentation or food technology environment strongly desired
• Able to use Microsoft Excel to perform basic calculations, such as determining concentrations or combining weights and volumes of samples
• Comfortable with hands on work, including blending recipes, assembling process equipment, and cleaning up laboratory spaces (dishwasher work, neutralizing acids/bases, etc.)
• Interested in learning about industrial fermentations and bioprocessing is required
• Industrial cooking or homebrewing experience is helpful but not required
• Comfortable working in an industrial environment
• Able to lift and move up to 50 pounds
• Able to work odd hours as experiments dictate

Company Specific

• Ask a lot of questions, be curious, and have insights into your work
• Be nimble, embrace the speed and ambiguity of startup culture
• Emphasize safety above all else
• Respect for others
• Willingness to learn and research new engineering/science concepts

Qualifications

AS in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering, Process Technology, Food Science, or similar degree required OR equivalent work experience (>2 years in bioprocess or food manufacturing/technology industry)

Experience in an industrial fermentation or food technology environment strongly desired

Extensive experience with industrial cooking and/or home brewing is relevant but not required

Solugen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other legally protected status.

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