Lab Technician - 1st Shift (7a-3p)

Green Bay, WI, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Compensation

Hourly

Range $18.50 - $24.75

Work Schedule

Fixed Shifts

Benefits

Day one healthcare coverage

401k with 4% match and additional discretionary employer contribution

11 paid holidays

80 hours of vacation time

48 hours of sick time annually

Life insurance

AD&D

Employee assistance program

short-term disability

long-term disability

Job Description

Lesaffre is a leading global company specializing in the fermentation of microorganisms such as yeasts and bacteria. With a rich history spanning over 170 years, originating in northern France, Lesaffre has grown into an innovative powerhouse in the fields of baking, taste enhancement, healthcare, and industrial biotechnology. The company boasts a worldwide presence with 11,000 employees from 96 different nationalities and generates an annual turnover of 3 billion euros. Lesaffre collaborates closely with customers, partners, and researchers to develop essential nutrients and bio actives that contribute to strengthening human health, optimizing animal well-being, and improving plant nutrition. This commitment to scientific advancement and quality has positioned Lesaffre as a respected leader in its industry.

The role in question is within Lesaffre's Red Star Yeast team, which focuses on delivering a range of high-performing yeast and related products. Red Star helps bakers and food manufacturers produce consistent, flavorful, and top-quality baked goods. The team combines the global expertise of Lesaffre and Archer Daniels Midland with reliable local operations supported by modern manufacturing facilities located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Dothan, Alabama. This synergy allows the team to bring trusted and innovative yeast solutions to markets across the United States and Canada.

The Laboratory Technician position is vital within this team and entails conducting chemical, physical, and microbiological analyses on raw materials, in-process samples, yeast, and finished products to ensure quality standards are met. This role demands precision, attention to detail, and the ability to follow strict procedures accurately. Employees in this position will work closely with laboratory supervisors, lab managers, production managers, and various operational staff to support ongoing production and quality assurance processes. The work schedule is Thursday through Monday, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and the role operates within a safety-first culture that prioritizes adherence to strict safety protocols. Experienced candidates who have a background in microbiology, chemistry, or food science and take pride in maintaining high work standards will find this opportunity rewarding. Lesaffre offers a comprehensive benefits package, including day one healthcare coverage, 401k with employer matching, paid holidays, vacation, sick time, and life and disability insurance programs. This role not only supports the manufacturing process but also contributes to the continual advancement of yeast technologies that impact numerous baked goods enjoyed daily by consumers.

Job Requirements

Associate degree in microbiology, chemistry, food science or related field required
Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred
chemistry and/or microbiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience
some computer knowledge is helpful, particularly the use of Microsoft Excel
ability to prioritize and organize tasks during the day
may require repeat analysis if unsure or have unusual results
decision to repeat tests may be made independently or directed by supervisor
must be able to follow written procedures, be organized, precise, observant, efficient, and capable of working with minimal supervision
must be able to perform several tasks simultaneously while maintaining accurate timing and procedures for each task
must be detail oriented and safety minded

Job Qualifications

Associate Degree in Microbiology, Chemistry, Food Science or related field
Bachelor's degree or 2 years chemistry related lab experience preferred
chemistry and/or microbiology lab experience either through formal training or work experience
some computer knowledge is helpful, particularly the use of Microsoft Excel
technicians must be able to follow written procedures, be organized, precise, observant, efficient, and capable of working with minimal supervision
must be able to perform several tasks simultaneously while maintaining accurate timing and procedures for each task
must be detail oriented and safety minded

Job Duties

Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to Lesaffre's safety-first culture by strictly following all safety protocols and participating in required safety programs
conducts microbiological analysis of samples and preparation of pure culture yeast for use in fermentations
conducts test including nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, color, percentage of buds, dry matters, sugar, brix, following written procedures, calculating results and recording in appropriate logbooks
conducts chemical and physical analysis of raw materials and yeast, both in-process and finished product
tests yeast for activity using Risograph
follows written procedures to conduct tests on various types of dough using different yeast lots or types
maintains equipment and general work area including cleaning and calibration of equipment, keeping records of maintenance performed, ensuring equipment is working properly, keeping work area clean and orderly
responsible for proper use and maintenance of lab equipment and supplies including analytical balance, centrifuge, mixer, drying oven, pH meter, color meter, stir plate, lab ware, Risograph, spectrophotometer, distillation unit, mineralization units, fume hood, chemicals, incubator, water bath, thermometers, titrators, YSI 2700D, LECO and Buchi B-339
prepares chemical solutions for processing areas
ensures that processing area is stocked with supply of needed solutions
prepares these solutions
performs tests accurately and consistently, following procedures and performing tests in the same way each day to provide accurate results
completion of bi-annual proficiency tests
other duties as assigned