Process Technician – Fermentation

IFF•Palo Alto, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you ready to apply your technical and analytical skills in a cutting-edge fermentation lab and help shape the future of industrial biotechnology? IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products. Health & Biosciences: Channeling our passion for nature and bioscience into sustainable, life-enhancing technologies that power innovative solutions across healthcare, food, consumer and industrial markets. IFF in Palo Alto, CA is seeking a Process Technician – Fermentation (Technician II, Process R&D) to join our R&D team! Located at the Genencor Technology Center in the Stanford Research Park, IFF is a leader in industrial biotechnology, developing innovative enzymes and bioproducts that improve performance and reduce environmental impact across industries such as cleaning, textiles, animal nutrition, grain processing, and chemicals. This is a full-time, onsite role supporting small-scale fermentation operations in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Be part of a highly driven and hands-on team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration. Where You’ll Make a Difference Operate and maintain small-scale fermentation bioreactors (e.g., DasGip, Sartorius, Ambr250) Monitor microbial fermentation processes and ensure accurate documentation Prepare media, maintain tanks, troubleshoot issues, and monitor contamination Support analytical processing and lab supply management Contribute to continuous improvement in safety, quality, efficiency, and reliability Collaborate with technicians, engineers, and scientists to support R&D project goals Follow lab safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE Work a set day shift (6:00 AM – 2:00 PM) with flexibility for overtime

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
Experience with biological systems and aseptic techniques (preferred)
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Basic computer skills; experience with process control systems is a plus
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and wear general lab PPE
Team player with a proactive and safety-conscious mindset
Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

A.A./B.S. in a scientific or technical field
2+ years of hands-on lab experience
Experience in fermentation or bioprocessing environments

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain small-scale fermentation bioreactors (e.g., DasGip, Sartorius, Ambr250)
Monitor microbial fermentation processes and ensure accurate documentation
Prepare media, maintain tanks, troubleshoot issues, and monitor contamination
Support analytical processing and lab supply management
Contribute to continuous improvement in safety, quality, efficiency, and reliability
Collaborate with technicians, engineers, and scientists to support R&D project goals
Follow lab safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE
Work a set day shift (6:00 AM – 2:00 PM) with flexibility for overtime

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Insurance – Including a generous company contribution to a Health Savings Account
Prescription Drug Coverage, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
We also offer Life and even Pet Insurance
Legal Assistance
Short-term and Long-Term Disability Protection
Paid Parental Leave – 16 Weeks
401k – 6% company match
3 weeks of vacation to start (prorated in the first year)
12 company-paid holidays and 1 company-paid floating holiday, annually
Wellness Program – Earn credits to receive a total of $500 Premium Differential per year
On-site employee gym
A daily credit towards onsite lunch delivery service
Career Development Programs
Tuition Reimbursement
Employee Assistance Programs
Shift Premiums
Company-sponsored holiday party, seasonal events, and offsite teambuilding