Lab Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Lab Technician
Job Description

The Lab Technician prepares pure culture yeast, performs microbiological and analytical testing, and supports fermentation and food safety processes in a food production laboratory. This role conducts chemical, physical, and microbiological analyses on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished yeast products while maintaining accurate records and ensuring laboratory equipment operates reliably. The Lab Technician works with minimal supervision, contributes to consistent product quality, and supports compliance with food safety and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare pure culture yeast for use in fermentations, including making media and plating samples as required.
• Perform microbiological analysis of samples and conduct food pathogen testing, including testing for Salmonella and Listeria.
• Conduct chemical, physical, and microbiological analysis of raw materials, in-process yeast, and finished yeast products.
• Use a Risograph to perform activity tests on various types of dough using different types of yeast.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and the general work area by cleaning and calibrating instruments, keeping detailed maintenance records, ensuring equipment functions properly, and keeping the workspace clean and orderly.
• Calculate, interpret, and record test results accurately in the appropriate systems or logbooks in a timely manner.
• Ensure the processing area remains stocked with laboratory-prepared solutions and reagents needed for operations.
• Perform all tests accurately and consistently by following established laboratory procedures and protocols.
• Prepare media required for microbiological testing, ensuring appropriate sterility and quality.
• Complete monthly food contact surface swabs in the plant to support environmental monitoring and food safety programs.
• Cross-check the production department’s Clean-in-Place (CIP) solutions to verify appropriate concentrations and effectiveness.
• Complete bi-annual proficiency tests to demonstrate and maintain testing competency and laboratory quality standards.

• Bachelor’s degree in a Life Science discipline such as Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science, or Biochemistry.
• Hands-on laboratory experience, with prior lab experience considered a strong advantage.
• Practical knowledge of microbiology techniques, including media preparation, plating, and pathogen testing.
• Ability to conduct chemical and physical analyses relevant to food and yeast products.
• Familiarity with analytical chemistry techniques and instruments such as HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) and GC (Gas Chromatography).
• Strong understanding of food science principles and food safety practices.
• Ability to perform calculations, analyze data, and accurately record results.
• Capability to follow detailed laboratory procedures and maintain consistency in testing.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in all laboratory activities.
• Ability to work independently in a laboratory setting while collaborating effectively with a small team.

• Experience working in a food laboratory or food production environment.
• Background in analytical chemistry with exposure to HPLC and GC methods.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in a food facility.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain organized records of testing, calibration, and maintenance.
• Comfort working with yeast, dough systems, and fermentation-related testing.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot basic laboratory issues.

The Lab Technician works on a first-shift schedule, Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., under an open-ended contract arrangement. The position is based in a food production facility laboratory, where the technician works fairly independently alongside approximately three other team members on the same shift. The environment emphasizes adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), including specific dress and conduct expectations: no piercings, no food or water in the lab, no strong perfumes or lotions, and appropriate control of hair in accordance with facility policies. The lab uses analytical equipment such as HPLC, GC, and a Risograph, and requires consistent attention to cleanliness, organization, and safety while handling food-related materials and conducting testing.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $22.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 26, 2026.

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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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 process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.