Fermentation Process Technician in Peoria, Illinois at Locus Fermentation Solutions

Who WE are…

Locus Fermentation Solutions is a USA-Based Biotech company delivering high performance, bio-based solutions across agriculture, energy, mining, and industrial markets. We specialize in advanced fermentation and formulation technologies that push performance beyond the limits of conventional chemistry.

OUR MISSION is to redefine what’s possible by using biosurfactants and microbial solutions as powerful performance amplifiers – driving superior solution performance while improving sustainability across industries.

We are looking for creative and collaborative outside-the-box thinkers who thrive in fast paced, entrepreneurial style environments. Learn more about us at Locusfs.com!

What you’ll be doing:

The Fermentation Process Technician is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining fermentation and downstream processing equipment to support safe, efficient, and consistent production operations. This hands-on role prepares and operates fermentation systems, monitors process parameters, collects samples and data, performs cleaning and sanitation activities, and maintains accurate production records in accordance with established procedures, quality standards, and safety requirements.

The position works collaboratively with Production, Quality, Research & Development, and other cross-functional teams to maintain product quality, optimize process performance, and support continuous improvement.

Schedule: Rotating 12-hour shifts, including an equal rotation of days and nights over a four-week interval. Occasional coverage of other shifts and weekend work may be required.

Location: Peoria, IL

Key Responsibilities:

Fermentation & Process Operations

• Prepare fermentation reactors and related equipment for production, including loading raw materials, verifying equipment readiness, setting process parameters, and inoculating cultures.
• Operate, control, and monitor fermentation and downstream processing equipment, including reactors, fermenters, make-up tanks, pumps, conveyors, rotary valves, pneumatic blowers, process piping and valves, dryers, scrubbers, centrifuges, evaporators, filters, and other related systems.
• Operate programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), and local instrumentation to monitor and adjust process parameters, including temperature, pH, pressure, and other established operating conditions.
• Monitor production processes to ensure operations remain within established parameters and follow approved procedures.
• Perform routine equipment checks and identify operating issues, deviations, or opportunities to improve process efficiency.
• Support fermentation and downstream processing activities to meet production schedules and product quality requirements.

Sampling, Testing & Documentation

• Collect scheduled process samples and perform assigned physical, analytical, and microbiological tests in accordance with established procedures.
• Prepare and submit samples for Quality Control testing and analysis as required.
• Record process data, test results, operating conditions, and equipment information accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintain production logs, equipment records, and other required documentation.

Equipment Maintenance, Cleaning & Sanitation

• Clean, sanitize, and sterilize reactors, tanks, process equipment, and associated components using approved procedures and aseptic techniques.
• Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance on reactors, tanks, pumps, and other production equipment.
• Verify equipment functionality and readiness before and during production activities.
• Maintain production, warehouse, and material storage areas in a clean, organized, and orderly condition.
• Follow good manufacturing practices (GMP), sanitation programs, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to prevent contamination and maintain product quality.
• Report equipment malfunctions, maintenance needs, and process concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

Safety, Teamwork & Continuous Improvement

• Follow all workplace safety policies, procedures, and required operating protocols.
• Wear and properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, eye and hearing protection, dust masks or respirators, and other protective equipment as appropriate.
• Safely perform assigned work in environments that may include confined spaces, elevated work areas, and exposure to hot or cold temperatures, humidity, dust, chemicals, and noise.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, incidents, and potential hazards to the supervisor.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, R&D, and other team members to support effective daily operations and resolve process issues.
• Participate in equipment and process training to maintain and develop technical skills.
• Provide task direction to temporary or contract general labor personnel when assigned.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts related to safety, sanitation, product quality, equipment reliability, and operational efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

Physical Requirements& Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position requires regular standing, walking, bending, reaching, and handling production materials and equipment. The employee must be able to perform routine production and sanitation tasks, operate process equipment, and work safely in industrial production environments.

The role may require lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling materials and equipment, as well as working in confined spaces, at heights, and in areas with varying temperatures, humidity, dust, chemicals, and noise. Required PPE must be worn as appropriate to the task. Specific physical demands, lifting requirements, and environmental conditions may vary by facility and assigned duties.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

What’s in it for you: