Macrobiology Rearing Technician

Who We Are

Koppert Biological Systems is the worldwide market leader in integrated pest management and disease management. The ongoing attempt to discover and utilize natural principles forms the backbone of Koppert's activities. Our strength lies in our ability to turn this knowledge into practical applications which contribute to finding solutions to prevailing problems. Koppert also believes in sharing knowledge and training staff and clients towards achieving sustainable horticulture and agriculture.

Job Purpose

As the Macrobiology Rearing Technician, you will leverage your knowledge and analytical tools to maintain the quality standards expected for Koppert rearings and products. In addition, you will be expected to occasionally test and report on new methods for improving the current manufacturing processes.

Under the direction and supervision of the Rearing Specialist, this role will be expected to perform a range of laboratory technician and production assignments which include but are not limited to small-scale arthropod rearing, numerical count, and quality verifications; developing and maintaining databases; collecting, analyzing, and communicating data for arthropod production.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Perform basic arthropod rearing tasks, including harvesting individual mites with fine brush under microscope, performing dilution calculations, and weighing out materials.
• Perform basic laboratory and investigative procedures that involve collecting, recording, organizing, and verifying the accuracy of biological and environmental data.
• Perform calculations and prepare charts, graphs, and reports.
• Configure, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments such as stereo microscopes, compound microscopes, moisture analyzers, pipettes, balances, and other equipment.
• Keep detailed laboratory records.
• Develop standard operating protocols, modify techniques, maintain and update the written form of this material.
• Read and interpret literature applicable to biological control agents. Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities and reading technical publications.
• Conduct general lab maintenance, including cleaning and disinfecting materials.
• Perform routine sampling of biological control products to monitor the adherence of environmental, microbiological, or health guidelines.
• Conduct quality and production process audits. Report findings to the Rearing Specialist and discuss results/troubleshoot issues.
• Troubleshoot technical problems and provide technical support to production staff regarding quality issues with biological products.
• Maintain good working relationships with production teams to maintain and further knowledge of production processes and aid in making improvements.
• Ensure that all laboratory protocols and procedures adhere to safety requirements.
• Create documents using Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and Power Point.
• Input data for tracking and traceability of rearings in appropriate software such as Agriware, and generate reports with Power BI.

Skills and Qualifications

Individuals in this role will be successful if they are able to demonstrate:

• Keen attention to detail, discipline, organization, and focus.
• Professionalism and congeniality.
• Comfort and confidence working with live biological products.
• The ability to maintain a high level of awareness while conducting repetitive tasks.
• Creative and critical thinking.
• Adaptability, flexibility and efficiency.
• Effectiveness working independently and collaboratively.
• A strong analytical background (math, scientific principles, research, etc.) and a desire to learn.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in biological science from an accredited four-year college or university, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 1 year experience working in a life science lab environment using standard equipment
• Experience conducting husbandry of live animals and/or rearing of insects in a lab setting preferred.
• Language Skills: The ability to read, analyze, and interpret general scientific research and technical procedures. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, customers, and the public.
• Mathematical Skills: Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook is required. Proficiency in applications such as Agriware, Power BI, Dynamics 365, and/or R is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Regular exposure to mites and insects.
• Occasional exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Occasional exposure to bumble bees and pollen.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to regularly sit, stand or walk for long periods of time
• Ability to regularly lift and/or move up to ten (10) pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to twenty-five (25) pounds, and occasionally lift up to fifty (50) pounds

Working at Koppert

Koppert stands at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, having been founded in 1967 by visionary Dutch grower Jan Koppert. Our mission is to make agriculture healthier, safer, and more productive by partnering with nature. We achieve this through the use of natural enemies to combat pests, employing bumblebees for pollination, and leveraging microbials and bio stimulants to support, protect, and strengthen crops. Our innovations have propelled a significant shift towards sustainable agriculture over the past 50 years, offering growers and farmers worldwide natural solutions that restore balance in their crops, improve health and resilience, and increase yield. With a clear vision of achieving 100% sustainable agriculture, we collaborate with growers, partners, universities, research institutions, and governmental bodies globally to meet the highest food safety demands while contributing to the better health of people and the planet. Through our integrated system of specialist knowledge and natural solutions, we continue to drive agricultural innovation and impact, embodying our commitment to partner with nature and promote sustainable growing practices.

The working atmosphere at Koppert is informal. We are a family company and closely involved with everything that happens within and outside our company. We are consistently looking at ways of improvement and continuing to invest in our employees.

Comprehensive Benefits Package to include medical, dental, and vision insurance, employer funded health savings account, tuition reimbursement, employer 401K match, life insurance, wellness program initiatives, employee assistance program, Volunteer Day, Koppert gear, and generous PTO.

Koppert Biological Systems is a veteran-friendly, Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. If you want to join a global and growing organization submit your cover letter and resume. At Koppert, we learn something every day.

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