Job Description
As a Lab Technician, you will play a critical role in preparing pure culture yeast for use in fermentations, making media, and plating samples. You will be responsible for conducting microbiological analysis of samples and performing food pathogen testing, including Salmonella and Listeria. Your expertise will also be utilized in conducting chemical, physical, and microbiological analysis of raw materials, yeast, both in-process and finished products. Additionally, you will use a Risograph to conduct activity tests on various types of dough using different types of yeast.
ResponsibilitiesPrepare pure culture yeast for fermentation processes.Make media and plate samples for analysis.Perform microbiological analysis of samples and food pathogen testing for Salmonella and Listeria.Conduct chemical, physical, and microbiological analysis of raw materials and yeast.Use a Risograph to perform activity tests on dough using various yeast types.Maintain equipment and workspace, including cleaning, calibration, and record-keeping.Calculate and record results accurately and timely.Ensure the processing area is stocked with solutions prepared by the lab.Perform tests consistently, following established procedures.Prepare media for microbiological testing.Complete monthly food contact swabs in the plant.Cross-check production department's CIP solutions.Complete bi-annual proficiency tests.Additional Skills & QualificationsBachelor's degree in Life Science - Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science, or BiochemistryExperience in laboratory settings would be a plusWork Environment
The position operates on the first shift, Monday through Friday from 7 am to 3 pm. Candidates should be flexible to shift changes, as hours may vary, including weekends. The lab environment requires independent work, with approximately three other team members on the shift.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $22.00 - $25.00/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 Cedar Rapids,IA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 27, 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@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.