Lab Technician

Lab Technician I - III Job Description We are seeking a skilled Lab Technician to operate, prepare, and control seed and production fermenters, while adhering to strict SOPs and manual manipulation of valves. This role involves sterilization checks, basic microbiology techniques, and use of lab equipment such as microscopes and centrifuges. The technician will also lead downstream processing of bacterial cultures, communicate with supervisors on production progress, and train employees in laboratory responsibilities. Responsibilities * Operate, prepare, and control seed and production fermenters. * Follow SOPs and manually manipulate valves on fermenters. * Perform sterilization checks and clean and sanitize fermenters. * Monitor levels on all fermenters. * Apply basic microbiology techniques, including aseptic technique. * Utilize lab equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, pumps, and scales. * Prepare media and clean glassware. * Complete downstream processing of bacterial cultures. * Lead production activities in the lab. * Communicate with the supervisor on production progress. * Monitor daily departmental activities. * Train and mentor employees on responsibilities and technical abilities. * Clean biological production areas and assist as needed. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Animal Science, Biomedical Science, or Biotechnology. * Experience with fermenters, bioreactors, or biotechnology. * Experience in a production-style environment. * Comfortable with hands-on fermentation work. * Ability to lift/push/pull up to 80 lbs. * Prolonged standing, crouching, and manual dexterity. * PPE required: hair, eye, foot protection, respirator. Work Environment The role offers a Monday-Friday schedule from 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM, with a 9-month contract-to-hire opportunity. Weekend work rotation involves 2-4 hours on Saturdays and Sundays due to production schedules. The position supports the fermentation of bacterial cultures for cattle vaccines, primarily targeting Leptospira, in a science-driven environment. Employees will work in an incubator area of approximately 80°F and will be provided sterile gowns/scrubs. Cleaning fermenters occurs three times a week, taking 15-20 minutes each session. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $20.50 - $29.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical, dental & vision * Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital * 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available * Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) * Short and long-term disability * Health Spending Account (HSA) * Transportation benefits * Employee Assistance Program * Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Pleasant Hill,IA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Sep 30, 2025. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@ for other accommodation options.

Created: 2025-09-27