Research Assistant

Position Description American Peat Technology is searching for a Research Assistant who will support Product Development and Quality Control (QC) operations in a laboratory focused on microbiological and physical property testing of agricultural granular inoculants. The role centers on hands‑on laboratory work with Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) organisms and a range of analytical tasks required to ensure product quality and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will be self‑motivated, self‑directed, and eager to build an emerging microbiology initiative into a fully functional and dynamic program for new product lines. This is an opportunity for a curious self‑starter to join a small team and to produce new product lines and provide long‑lasting value for a company with a history of rewarding its hard‑working stars with generous compensation and benefits. The schedule for this position is generally Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. Other days and hours are occasionally required. Work locations include APT’s main plant and APT2 located in the city of Aitkin. This position starts at $73,500 per year, paid bi-weekly in accordance with the Company’s standard payroll practices. This is an exempt position. APT offers PTO, a medical and dental plan, matching 401K and charitable giving plans, and paid volunteer opportunities. This position reports to the Technical Director and works closely with other members of the R&D team. Job Duties Microbiological Testing Perform QC microbiology at Aitkin MN sites Conduct plate count methods for viable microorganisms in granular and liquid inoculants Maintain cultures and handle BSL-1 organisms safely Physical Property Analysis Measure and record moisture content of products Perform pH assessments with calibrated meters Document bulk density for QC batch testing Process Development Plan and execute process development and validation trials Maintain detailed lab notebooks, batch records, and calibration logs Prepare and deliver QC reports Order supplies and optimize operating conditions Planning & Communication Schedule QC sample workflows with production and R&D teams Communicate results, issues, and scheduling clearly across departments Investigate deviations or unexpected results and assist with corrective actions Review and update SOPs and safety documents Safety & Compliance Follow strict lab safety protocols and maintain PPE and equipment Participate in biosafety, chemical safety, and lab training Position Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or related field Minimum 5 years laboratory experience in microbiology or QC Proficiency in plating techniques, balances, pH meters, moisture analysis Willingness to work onsite at Rossburg and Aitkin plants Familiarity with BSL-1 organisms and safe lab practices Ability to work semi-autonomously with minimal supervision Strong organizational, detail orientation, and record-keeping skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Problem‑solving mindset with ability to troubleshoot technical issues Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Visio, and PowerPoint Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines Comfort working at the bench and standing for extended periods Project management or process improvement experience preferred About American Peat Technology American Peat Technology, LLC (APT) is a 20-year-old privately‑owned business located in Spencer Township near the City of Aitkin in Central Minnesota and the southwest corner of the State’s Iron Range Region. APT’s flagship business is the harvesting of peat to produce valuable granular products for the agriculture and water treatment markets. In recent years, APT has expanded the scope of its business to four distinct market areas: Agronomy (row crops, turf, and horticulture) Water treatment Mineral mining and processing Consumer products including spirits and personal care products With the expanded business focus, APT is committed to growth, both throughout its business interests and among its talented family of employees. APT is committed to its member‑investors, employees, customers, and community, led by its Mission, Vision, and Values: Mission Creating global impact by unlocking the potential of overlooked resources Vision Solving the world’s gnarliest issues Values Resourceful – We are creative problem solvers who use what we have, and a can‑do attitude, to overcome any challenge. Industrious – We work hard and get dirty to keep our living. Stewardship – We serve and care for all that has been entrusted to us: our business, our people, our community, and our planet. Entrepreneurial – We pursue overlooked opportunities and create new solutions – often from scratch. About Aitkin, Minnesota Aitkin is located about 90 miles west of Duluth and 150 miles north of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Aitkin County is known by its tagline, "Naturally Better". Aitkin hosts a wide variety of natural resources and outdoor adventure opportunities in addition to possessing a thriving arts, music and farm‑to‑table scene. Located between the Mississippi and Ripple Rivers, Aitkin sits 20 miles from the internationally renowned Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails and 35 miles from the Brainerd Lakes Area, which welcomes millions of annual visitors from all over the world. #J-18808-Ljbffr