Fermentation Development Lab Technician

Corteva Agriscience • Indianapolis, IN

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About The Position

At Corteva Agriscience, you will help us grow what’s next. No matter your role, you will be part of a team that is building the future of agriculture – leading breakthroughs in the innovation and application of science and technology that will better the lives of people all over the world and fuel the progress of humankind. The Screening and Bioprocess (S&B) group is seeking a dedicated Fermentation Technician for the Fermentation Development Laboratory (FDL). Under the guidance of the FDL leader, this role is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operation of bioreactors, with the goal of enhancing fermentation outcomes.

Requirements

• A trade school certification, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, engineering, or a related discipline is required.
• Mechanical aptitude is desired, including skills in electrical maintenance, steam systems, equipment repair, and engineering controls.
• A strong commitment to safety culture at Corteva is essential.
• The ability to work effectively in diverse teams and excellent interpersonal skills are required.
• Flexibility to work after hours or on weekends as necessary is required.
• Willingness to work in a process environment is necessary, including frequent bending, reaching, lifting (about 50% of the workday), and working with steam and pressurized equipment.
• A high degree of independence and initiative is required.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential.
• No visa sponsorship or relocation is available for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience with pressurized bioreactors is preferred.
• Experience with programmable logic controller (PLC) or human-machine interface (HMI) programming for closed loop control systems is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Develop a thorough understanding of laboratory equipment operations, always upholding the highest standards of safety and discipline.
• Operate and maintain bioreactors to facilitate the study and improvement of fermentation processes. This includes tasks such as adding medium components, performing sterilization, conducting daily sampling, cleaning, and routine equipment maintenance.
• Take responsibility for both scheduled and unscheduled laboratory equipment and utility repairs, showcasing strong mechanical aptitude.
• Conduct sample analyses using various instruments, including viscometers, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, laboratory analyzers, and pH meters.
• Participate in fermentation monitoring and sampling during weekends and off-hours, including periodic call-ins as required.
• Work collaboratively on multiple projects within a highly cooperative environment.
• Gain an understanding of the requirements necessary for fermentation process development.
• Manage the ordering of laboratory consumables and oversee the receipt and stocking of necessary materials and supplies.
• Schedule and organize work tasks to align with the team’s overall work plan and project objectives.
• Demonstrate proficiency in basic computer skills, particularly within Microsoft Office platforms such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Identify opportunities to enhance laboratory workflows or experimental designs.
• Recognize and respond appropriately when experimental results deviate from expected outcomes.
• Comply with all documentation standards and contribute to the composition of technology reports.

Benefits

• Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills
• Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place
• Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment
• Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays
• Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father
• Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree