Lab Technician - 1st Shift (7a-3p)

Lesaffre Group • Cedar Rapids, IA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Lesaffre is a global leader in fermentation, specializing in microorganisms for baking, taste, healthcare, and industrial biotechnology. With over 170 years of history, Lesaffre has a significant global presence, employing 11,000 people across 96 nationalities and achieving a 3-billion euro turnover. The company focuses on developing essential nutrients and bioactives to enhance human health, animal well-being, and plant nutrition. This specific role is within the Red Star Yeast team, which provides high-performing yeast and related products to bakers and food manufacturers in the U.S. and Canadian markets, supported by modern manufacturing facilities and global expertise from Lesaffre and Archer Daniels Midland.

Requirements

• Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field required.
• Chemistry and/or Microbiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience.
• Some computer knowledge is helpful, particularly the use of Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to prioritize and organize tasks during the day.
• May require repeat analysis if unsure or have unusual results. Decision 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.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for use in fermentations.
• Conducts tests including nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, percentage of Buds, dry matters, sugar, brix, following written procedures, calculating results and recording in appropriate logbooks.
• Conducts chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, both in-process and finished product.
• Tests yeast for activity using Risograph.
• Follows written procedures to conduct tests on various types of dough using different yeast lots or types.
• Maintains equipment and general work area including cleaning and calibration of equipment, keeping records of maintenance performed, ensuring equipment is working properly, and keeping work area clean and orderly.
• Responsible for proper use and maintenance of lab equipment and supplies including: analytical balance, centrifuge, mixer, drying oven, pH meter, color meter, stir plate, lab ware, Risograph, spectrophotometer, distillation unit, mineralization units, fume hood, chemicals, incubator, water bath, thermometers, titrators, YSI 2700D, LECO and Buchi B-339.
• Prepares chemical solutions for processing areas.
• Ensures that processing area is stocked with supply of needed solutions; prepares these solutions.
• Performs tests accurately and consistently, following procedures and performing tests in the same way each day to provide accurate results.
• Completion of bi-annual proficiency tests.
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Day one healthcare coverage (Medical, Dental, & Vision)
• 401k with 4% match & additional discretionary employer contribution
• 11 paid holidays
• 80 hours of vacation time and 48 hours of sick time annually
• Life insurance, AD&D, Employee Assistance Program, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and more!

What This Job Offers

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