Research Technician

Research Technician

This position is a temporary, one-year assignment based onsite in Des Moines, IA. Candidates must be located within commuting distance of the facility. Kemin Industries is seeking a Research Technician to support Palatant and Specialty Protein R&D for pet food applications through analytical testing and laboratory activities associated with a large-scale data generation and characterization initiative. The Research Technician prepares samples, performs GC-MS and LC-MS analyses using established methods, and supports the consistent collection and documentation of analytical data across a high volume of research samples. Responsibilities also include routine instrument upkeep, management of analytical supplies and consumables, laboratory organization, and other activities necessary to maintain reliable and efficient analytical workflows. This position is based onsite at our World Headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, and follows a Monday through Friday schedule during standard business hours.

Join the Kemin Team and Transform Lives! We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity and committed to transforming the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet.

We create solutions that strengthen health and wellbeing, provide nutrition and immune support for pets and production animals, safeguard the planet's natural resources, and protect the global food supply chain for generations to come.

We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various industries, including human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines.

We employ 3,500 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.

As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial, physical, and professional well-being:

• Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our fitness reimbursement for the whole family, access to an on-site fitness center, a restaurant offering seasonal fresh food options, and free fresh fruit in break areas.
• Career Development and Advancement: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
• Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in-house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
• Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Support Palatant and Specialty Protein R&D initiatives through analytical testing, sample preparation, and laboratory activities.
• Operate analytical instrumentation including GC and HPLC systems.
• Follow established SOPs while completing assigned work.
• Perform lab experiments within well-defined guidelines and under direct supervision; operate laboratory equipment.
• Maintain accurate and detailed electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Organize and maintain small laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Exercise laboratory safety practices.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related scientific field.
• Three or more years of relevant laboratory or related work experience preferred.
• Experience working with analytical instrumentation in an academic, research, or professional laboratory environment.
• Experience with GC, HPLC, or similar analytical instrumentation is highly desirable.
• Must be highly motivated, reliable, and self-sufficient.
• Strong attention to detail and awareness of safety.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and/or in a team environment.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed/religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status (where applicable), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy/childbirth/breastfeeding or related conditions, age (40+), disability (including the use of a service animal), genetic information, marital status, familial or caregiver status, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, reproductive health decision-making, and any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also prohibit retaliation for raising concerns or participating in an EEO process. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview can email View email address on click.appcast.io.

A post-offer background check and drug screen is required. Additional pre-employment requirements may be necessary based on position.

Kemin is a drug-free and tobacco-free campus.