Scientist I, Benchtop and Pilot-Scale Fermentation - Decatur, IL

Job Description

• Execute benchtop and pilot-scale fermentation experiments at the 7.5 L to 100 L scale in support of R&D and process development projects. 
• Set up, operate, monitor, sample, clean, and maintain fermentation systems and related laboratory equipment. 
• Follow experimental protocols, standard operating procedures, and safety requirements to ensure consistent, high-quality execution. 
• Apply strong aseptic techniques during media preparation, inoculation, sampling, transfers, and equipment handling to minimize contamination risk. 
• Record experimental conditions, process parameters, observations, deviations, sample data, and results accurately in batch records, laboratory notebooks, experimental summaries, or other required documentation. 
• Perform routine sample analysis and support data interpretation to evaluate fermentation performance and process outcomes. 
• Troubleshoot fermentation processes, equipment issues, and operational challenges; recommend and implement corrective actions as appropriate. 
• Support the development, improvement, and documentation of fermentation protocols, SOPs, Job Safety Analyses, and best practices. 
• Perform basic maintenance, calibration checks, and routine inspections on fermentation and laboratory equipment. 
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory and pilot-plant workspace, including supply and material inventory management. 
• Interpret experimental results, draw conclusions, and provide recommendations to project technical leads. 
• Communicate progress, results, risks, and issues effectively with technical leaders, project teams, and cross-functional stakeholders. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to fermentation execution, process efficiency, data quality, documentation, equipment reliability, and laboratory safety.

• Bachelor’s degree in fermentation science, microbiology, biochemical engineering, biotechnology, biology, chemistry, or a related scientific discipline; or equivalent hands-on fermentation experience. 
• 2–3 years of relevant laboratory, fermentation, bioprocessing, or pilot-scale experience preferred for candidates without a directly related degree. 
• Ability to execute detailed experimental protocols with accuracy, consistency, and attention to detail. 
• Working knowledge of aseptic technique and laboratory safety practices. 
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities, and timelines. 
• Effective written and verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based, multidisciplinary R&D environment. 
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently under general technical direction. 
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work comfortably in a pilot laboratory environment.

• Hands-on experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining benchtop and pilot-scale fermentation equipment. 
• Experience with industrial biotechnology, microbial fermentation, or bioprocess development. 
• Familiarity with media preparation, sterilization, inoculum development, fermentation sampling, process monitoring, and contamination control. 
• Experience working with yeast, bacterial, or fungal fermentation systems. 
• Familiarity with fermentation process parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, agitation, aeration, temperature, feed strategy, and foam control. 
• Experience contributing to scale-up, scale-down, technology transfer, or process improvement efforts. 
• Experience with laboratory documentation, batch records, SOPs, and data reporting. 
• Demonstrated ability to support projects that deliver technical and business value.

• : $49,000.00 - $91,000.00