Bioprocess Technician

About ZymoChem

ZymoChem is breakthrough science for a fossil-free future.  We accelerate the transition to a real-zero economy by developing bio-based materials for everyday products.  Our platform is powered by proprietary carbon conserving (C2) microbes that convert renewable feedstocks into high-value materials while radically minimizing CO2 loss during the production phase.  

ZymoChem recently closed a $21 million Series A round of fundraising to support the launch of our first high-performance material and to advance our first partnered product to commercial scale.  In addition to this funding from premier domestic & international venture capital firms, we are also supported by existing revenues from commercial partnerships with world-leading companies and funding from multiple government awards, including a 2023 $4MM grant from the Department of Energy. 

With a plan to double our team in 2024-25, we seek candidates who are motivated by science & innovation and have a passion to push the boundaries of materials performance.  We are collaborative, multidisciplinary, and relentlessly committed to creating a chemicals, materials, and products industry in tune with the 21st century. 

Our Mission: To catalyze a real-zero economy with drop-in, bio-based solutions.

Our Vision: To live in a world in which the goods we depend on every day are bio-manufactured from 100% renewable materials and designed for a sustainable economy - without compromise.

Our Values: Lead with Compassion, Aspire Collectively, Evolve Continuously, Innovate with Impact, Scale Sustainably

Position Summary

The Bioprocess Technician position will be responsible for the hands-on setup, execution, and cleanup of fermentation and downstream unit operations. As a member of the Bioprocess Operations team, responsibilities include sample and data collection, media preparation, bioreactor and cell separation equipment assembly, glassware washing, equipment sterilization, and routine lab maintenance. This role offers a great opportunity for those with an operations background to gain research and development experience.

Responsibilities

• Hands-on set-up, sterilization, and breakdown of Applikon and Sartorius benchtop bioreactor systems and DSP equipment.
• Routine sampling, assay processing, seed training, and data collection including raw data from fermentation and DSP experiments, calibrations, inventory, and repairs.
• Make media solutions for a variety of fermentation projects while following batch records.
• Perform downstream unit operations such as centrifugation and tangential flow filtration (TFF). This includes assisting in the initial cell separation of fermentation broth.
• Clean and autoclave glassware and equipment.
• Calibration and maintenance of equipment (i.e. pH calibration and pumps). Troubleshoot lab issues and equipment.
• Participate in process improvement projects, such as identifying areas for better lab organization, drafting and following standard operating procedures (SOPs), managing inventory, and assessing equipment needs.
• Routinely interface and communicate with the Bioprocess team including RAs, Scientists, Process Engineers, and Bioprocess lead for collaboration.
• Maintain lab inventory levels and lab upkeep including safety best practices and clean work environment.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the Bioprocess Operations Lead.

Qualifications 

• AA degree or Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering, or life sciences with equivalent work experience required
• A minimum of 2 years of lab experience, preferably in a fast-paced startup or industrial wet-lab environment is required. 
• Flexibility and willingness to work during off hours or weekends ~20% of the time. 
• Familiar with aseptic technique, pipetting, recordkeeping, handling and operating lab equipment.
• Ability to adapt to shifting work plans and remain flexible to shifting priorities while maintaining efficiency.
• Strong communication, organization and time-management skills with attention to detail.
• Proficient with MS Office, Google Suite, Zoom and Slack is a plus.
• Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds; move around the lab facility between multiple locations.

Culture and Benefits

ZymoChem offers full-time employees a competitive base salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company culture that’s collaborative, multidisciplinary, and committed to a big vision for positively impacting the world. We seek candidates who are motivated by our mission and are equally passionate toward pushing the boundaries to build a sustainable future. Located in the vibrant East Bay area of San Francisco, our headquarters are housed at Gate 510, a state-of-the-facility with many in-house and nearby amenities.

Full-time opportunities at ZymoChem come with: 

• Competitive hourly range of $25 to $30 an hour depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes company stock options, 401(k) retirement plan (includes a corporate match), medical, dental, and vision healthcare coverage, and life and long-term disability insurance.
• Additional benefits include FSA, commuter, and supplemental life insurance.
• Flexible time off policy with 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO) per year and 10 paid company holidays per year.

If this opportunity sounds exciting and aligns with your career aspirations, we want to hear from you!  Please send your resume/CV and a cover letter through our website job posting.

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. ZymoChem may agree to sponsor an individual for an employment visa immediately or in the future if there is a shortage of individuals with particular skills for this job.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.