Upstream Process Development Technician

As an Upstream Process Development Technician at Eurofins Scientific in West Point, PA, your primary responsibilities will include providing technical support for bioreactor operations and executing bench-scale bioreactor processes. You'll also perform essential laboratory techniques, monitor bioreactors daily, and maintain accurate records of all parameters related to cell culture. This role involves ensuring high data integrity and understanding various cell culture parameters.

To qualify for the Upstream Process Development Technician position at Eurofins, a Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field combined with 1-2 years of relevant experience is required. Alternatively, a Master’s degree in a related field with 0-1 years of experience is acceptable. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial, as well as authorization to work in the U.S. indefinitely.

Success in the Upstream Process Development Technician position at Eurofins Scientific relies heavily on effective communication skills, the ability to learn new techniques, and the capability to work both independently and as part of a team. Experience with fermentation and small-scale bioreactors is highly advantageous. A self-motivated and adaptable attitude will also greatly benefit those in this role.

While previous fermentation experience is not strictly required, candidates with this background will find themselves at an advantage in the Upstream Process Development Technician role at Eurofins. Familiarity with small-scale bioreactors and media development will also be beneficial in executing the responsibilities of the position effectively.

Eurofins Scientific offers an excellent benefits package for the Upstream Process Development Technician position, including comprehensive medical coverage, dental and vision options, life and disability insurance, a 401(k) with company match, and paid vacation and holidays. Working for Eurofins means being part of an organization that values its employees' well-being.

To effectively answer this question, focus on the specific bioreactor systems you've worked with and your role in those operations. Highlight any experience you have with monitoring parameters, maintaining data integrity, and executing bench-scale processes.

In your response, mention specific laboratory techniques that align with the job description, such as aseptic cell culture expansion and routine analytical procedures. Provide examples of how you've used these techniques in previous positions.

Discuss strategies in your response that demonstrate your attention to detail, such as double-checking your entries, using electronic notebooks, and adhering to SOPs. Real-life examples can help illustrate how you maintain high standards in your work.

Explain various cell culture parameters like growth rate, density, viability, and metabolite consumption, and discuss their significance in bioprocessing. This showcases your technical knowledge and its application in maintaining cell culture health.

Here, you can talk about your time management skills and organizational strategies, such as creating to-do lists, using project management tools, or applying metrics to manage multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced setting.

Provide a specific example, emphasizing your problem-solving skills. Discuss the steps you took to address the challenge and highlight the successful outcome, focusing on teamwork and communication if applicable.

Share detailed insights into your previous roles that involved fermentation technologies. Discuss any relevant projects, the technologies you used, and the results you achieved, underlining your expertise in this area.

Outline a professional approach where you would first acknowledge the mistake, assess its impact, and work on correcting it. Highlight your commitment to preventing similar errors in the future by improving your practices.

Reflect on your passion and interest in scientific research. Consider mentioning specific aspects of process development that excite you, such as contributing to safety in food products or improving pharmaceutical processes, to demonstrate your alignment with Eurofins’ mission.

Discuss the principles of data integrity, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, consistency, and reliability in laboratory records. Relate these points to compliance with industry standards and ethical practices, which are critical in positions like the Upstream Process Development Technician role.