The Identity Preserved Grain (IPG) Laboratory at Illinois Crop Improvement is dedicated to specialty seed and valued added grains. The laboratory measures grain and related products for protein, oil, fiber, starch, and other proximate or primary composition characteristics. The position blends several aspects of science, including chemistry, physics, engineering, agriculture, feed, and food. Plant breeders, researchers, merchandisers, and processors in the feed, fiber, fuel, and food industries rely on the laboratory's third-party grain services.
The lab's primary service offerings are suitability tests for whole grains and early-phase processed products. Small laboratory-scale grinders and processing equipment take the samples from whole grain to flour samples. The laboratory is also equipped with near-infrared (NIR), nitrogen by combustion analyzer, helium gas pycnometers, and similar analyzers. The role requires on-the-job training as no one degree may cover all of the essential aspects of IPG Lab testing. A basic understanding of mass analysis (weight and volume) as well as chemistry (extractions) and physics (grain milling) offers a good description of the technician’s base skillset. The role also includes coordinating outsourcing testing needs such as fatty acid, amino acid, fiber, tofu, and soymilk analyses.
- Identity Preserved Grain Lab Full Time Technician
- Responsible for day-to-day operations of the IPG Lab, including properly operating equipment, performing tests, data management and other relevant laboratory duties.
- Assists the modification, development, validation and verification of existing and new methods.
- Responsible for reporting technical issues and problems related to any activity in the department to the Lab Director.
- A commitment to the mission and ISO quality policy of the organization.
- Knowledge of grain quality, grain handling, and grain processing.
- Knowledge of grain and seed testing methods, chemicals, products and equipment
- Understanding of basic laboratory procedures and etiquette
- Some mechanical aptitude preferred
- Ability to communicate clearly in English
- Ability to use modern business communications equipment including computers
- Ability to verbally communicate with employees and customers
- Ability to work well alone and as part of a team
- Knowledge of conflict resolution skills
- Flexibility to work under seasonal time constraints
· Associate Degree or higher in a science field such as Biology or Chemistry, including lab courses
· 2 years’ experience as a lab technician in a biological or chemical lab setting preferred
· Prior experience with a LIMS system for reporting results preferred
- Due to the duties and responsibilities of this position, the individual must be willing to accept a time commitment that may involve work weeks that exceed 40 hours and may include some travel or evening and weekend work typically post-harvest to pre-planting.
- Written acceptance of the employee handbook and confidentiality agreement
- Keyboarding, filing, phone use and other general office and laboratory activities
- Work involving supplies and chemicals relating to grain testing
- Ability to lift and carry samples, supplies and equipment as necessary, up to 40 lbs
- Sufficient mobility to perform customer visits, attend training sessions and generally move about the facility in an efficient manner
- Valid driver's license
- The description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by the individual in this position. It is not an exclusive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be required.
· Pay is commensurate on experience
· $18-20 per hour
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
