Fermentation Laboratory Technician at AeroVironment in Dayton, OH

Job description

Worker Type Regular Job Description Fermentation Laboratory Technician Position Overview AeroVironment Inc. is seeking a Fermentation Laboratory Technician as a member of the Biological & Nano Scale Team in Dayton, Ohio. This position will work closely with the Technical Lead to support biomanufacturing activities, related process development, and other activities using laboratory and industrial equipment. This work will contribute to the development and execution of biomanufacturing processes and the production of biologically derived components of commercial and military value. The successful candidate will apply established procedures and technical knowledge to operate, monitor, and maintain fermentation systems; prepare solutions and media; perform laboratory analyses; and document process and laboratory activities. Primary Responsibilities Provide general laboratory support, including housekeeping, organization, and maintenance of a clean and orderly work environment. Maintain and operate fermenters and associated systems in accordance with established processes, protocols, and safety requirements. Prepare solutions and media using established protocols, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and proper documentation. Operate laboratory analyzers and instrumentation using established protocols and document results accurately. Perform aseptic operations involving Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) organisms in accordance with established procedures. Document laboratory operations, equipment use, process conditions, observations, and results in accordance with established documentation practices. Execute laboratory and biomanufacturing tasks independently using established processes and protocols. Operate high-energy equipment in accordance with established processes, protocols, and safety requirements. Follow employee health and safety requirements and applicable laboratory procedures. Requires the ability to execute assigned tasks independently, recognize deviations from established procedures, and communicate issues to the Technical Lead. Perform work with limited or little oversite or supervision. Required Qualifications This position involves working on government projects and requires U.S. Citizenship Bachelor of Science degree in life sciences or related engineering field, or four (4) years of relevant hands-on experience working in a chemical or biological research laboratory or an industrial or manufacturing environment. Ability to interpret and follow written and verbal instructions, technical procedures, and established protocols. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document laboratory activities, communicate technical observations, and explain technical information clearly and effectively. Ability to execute assigned tasks independently in accordance with established processes and protocols. Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, using a calculator, as well as unit conversions. Ability to follow laboratory safety requirements and established procedures for handling biological and chemical materials. Ability to problem solve situations that are atypical or occur infrequently. Desired Qualifications Experience operating laboratory- or pilot-scale fermentation equipment. Proficiency working with process equipment incorporating integrated control systems. Proficiency with Microsoft Office products, particularly Excel, for graphing, data manipulation, and basic data analysis. Proficiency measuring and monitoring critical kinetic and metabolic indicators in bioprocesses, such as oxygen uptake rate (OUR), oxygen transfer rate (OTR), carbon dioxide evolution rate (CER), and respiratory quotient (RQ). Proficiency maintaining accurate laboratory records and following established quality, safety, and documentation practices. Work Environment and Working Conditions Work is primarily performed in a chemical and biological laborat