Fermentation Technician

Job Title: Fermentation Technician

Location: (Indianapolis, IN)

Duration: Contract - 12 months, likely to extend

Pay Range: $$21/hr - $23/hr (W2)

Job ID: 399712

About BCforward

BCforward is a leading global IT consulting and workforce solutions firm providing services and support to Fortune 500 and government clients. Founded in 1998, BCforward has grown with our customers needs into a full-service business solutions provider. With delivery centers and offices across North America and India, we take pride in building long-term relationships and delivering excellence through innovation, collaboration, and integrity.

Job Description

We are seeking a Fermentation Technician to join our pilot-scale fermentation and chemical production lab. The ideal candidate will have hands-on laboratory experience, strong science fundamentals, and the ability to learn and perform routine to moderately complex fermentation operations, preventive maintenance, and documentation in accordance with SOPs.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day fermenter operations including sterilization, inoculation, feeding, harvesting, de-vitalization, cleaning, and troubleshooting.


• Apply sterile techniques for inoculating and sampling shake flasks and bioreactors.


• Conduct routine fermenter sampling and monitoring during scheduled hours, including limited weekend support.


• Operate autoclaves and safely handle acid/base preparation and mixing.


• Perform off-line analyses using viscometers, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, and pH meters.


• Execute preventive maintenance and basic repairs on lab equipment and bioreactor components, including valves.


• Document work accurately, maintain lab records, and contribute data to technical reports.


• Manage supply orders, receive and stock materials, and support cost control and material usage improvements.


• Support continuous improvement and SOP optimization in alignment with team objectives.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, Organic Chemistry, Physics, or related field.


• 0-5 years of laboratory experience; entry-level candidates encouraged to apply.


• Foundational sterile technique and familiarity with common lab equipment.


• Ability to follow SOPs, maintain documentation, and recognize equipment malfunctions.


• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.


• Ability to lift, move, and work safely with lab apparatus, chemicals, and pressurized systems as required by the role.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience in pilot-scale fermentation or chemical production labs.


• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with hand tools for basic equipment repairs.

Schedule & Work Environment

• Weekly schedule: 40 hours with potential OT. Day shift.


• Core hours: Start around 7:30 a.m.; must attend 8:30 a.m. team meeting. End between 4:00-5:30 p.m.


• Weekend work: 1-3 days per month for 2-4 hour sampling and adjustments. May flex time during the week.


• Allergens present: nuts, plants, chemicals, latex. Medical surveillance not required.


• Special equipment: closed-toe, comfortable leather shoes required. Other PPE provided.

Training & Growth Pathway

• Extensive training program with progressive levels over multiple years.


• Initial duties include glassware washing and assembly prep, progressing to complex fermentation operations with mentorship.

Interview & Submission Details

• Interview: Two stages typical. Initial Teams call with managers, followed by Teams or on-site lab interview.


• Resume required. Please indicate citizenship status or home country for export control compliance review.

Citizenship & Export Control

Due to federal export control regulations governing access to certain documentation, candidates will be reviewed for eligibility under applicable requirements.

Why BCforward?

At BCforward, we believe in advancing lives and careers. When you join our team, you gain access to:

• Competitive compensation and benefits.


• Opportunities for growth with global clients.


• A supportive, inclusive culture that values innovation and people.


• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and projects.

About Our Commitment

BCforward is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Interested? Apply Now!

If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please apply with your most recent resume.