Contract Bioprocess Associate

About the role

• As we continue to grow, we are looking for a highly motivated Contract Bioprocess Associate to join our team. Our bench scale lab and pilot facilities are located in Champaign, IL.
• A successful candidate will work closely with engineers and senior associates to help clients optimize their fermentation and downstream processes at pilot scale.
• This role will work within the bench and/or pilot plant team on process development and scaling of bioprocesses for production of proteins, lipids, amino acids, organic acids, polysaccharides, hydrocolloids, and enzymes from bacteria, yeast, and fungal hosts.
• This is a contract role which we expect to last for six months. However, contractors who are strong performers will have the potential to transition to full-time-Bioprocess Associates upon completion of the contract.
• This role will involve reoccurring weekend work and occasional evening and night work and contractors with time flexibility will be preferred.

What you'll do

• Assist in the preparation, setup, and maintenance of laboratory or pilot plant equipment and experiments.
• Receive, label, and process samples according to established protocols. Maintain accurate documentation of sample information and experimental procedures.
• Operate and maintain laboratory and pilot plant equipment and instruments. Collaborate with senior technicians and bioprocess engineers to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
• Record and organize experimental data. Assist in the analysis and interpretation of results, contributing to the overall project objectives.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to support ongoing projects. Communicate effectively with team members and contribute to a positive and productive work environment.
• Adhere to quality control standards and assist in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory space. Participate in routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field preferred (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering) or equivalent experience.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and maintain a high standard of laboratory cleanliness.

The Ideal Candidate

• Experience working in laboratories with biological research a plant environment and/or comfortable working with high-pressure stainless-steel vessels.
• Enthusiasm for a startup environment (we are a small team).
• A quick learner with a passion for hands-on work.
• Proactive and detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality results.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Committed to maintaining a safe and compliant laboratory environment.
• Candidates who can work regularly on weekends will be preferred.

What We Offer

• Hourly salary of approx. $24/hour with path to conversion to full-time employee with benefits