AQUA Cultured Foods is an innovative food technology company disrupting the alternative protein space with the world’s first whole-cut seafood alternatives created through fermentation. Our novel technology produces a sustainable food source using only a fraction of the resources required by traditional agriculture. As our global challenges with overfishing, climate change, and feeding the world’s expanding population grow, our mission is to create delicious, nutrient-rich foods to feed our planet and protect our oceans.
We are actively seeking a Fermentation Technician for immediate hire to join us as a full-time team member. This person will play a key role on our Production team and execute day-to-day fermentation, finished product processes, and sanitation/sterilization. Activities include media preparation, fermentation inoculation, harvest, downstream processing, and packaging of finished product.
Location
You will work on-site full-time (M-F) with our team in our pilot facility in West Town, Chicago. Remote work is not available for this role.
Job Responsibilities
Meticulously execute Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for aseptically preparing seed cultures through packaging finished product
Prepare and monitor production seed train and fermentation
Prepare media for production batches following all documented protocols
Execute processes to transform fermentation product into sellable finished goods, including: cutting, washing, marinating, and packaging following all established GMPs
Operate and monitor fermentation and production equipment and perform maintenance, inspection, and cleaning following operational instructions
Execute scalable bioreactor operating and control strategies, utilizing working knowledge of batch, fed-batch, and continuous fermentation
Capture and document data points as required throughout the fermentation and production processes
Minimum Requirements
BSc in a science, engineering, or related field
1-2 years of experience in liquid/solid fermentation and/or with plant operations equipment
Basic understanding of laboratory safety
Quick diagnosis and troubleshooting skills
Excellent time management and organizational skills
Keen attention to detail with strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Ability to follow protocols with high precision and accuracy
Ability to effectively multitask and maintain focus and quality
Preferred Qualifications
Experience and/or coursework in microbiology and aseptic technique
Experience with plant operations equipment
Experience with microscopy, spectroscopy, and assay development
Strong technical and mechanical troubleshooting abilities
Compensation and Benefits
Competitive salary
Comprehensive benefits package including unlimited paid time off, healthcare (medical, vision, and dental), and a 401(k) with company match
Opportunity to be an early employee at a fast-growing food company
At Aqua Cultured Foods, we are committed to building a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workforce. We take being an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer seriously and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other characteristics protected by law.
