Culture Operations Inoculation Technician

About the role

The Culture Operations Inoculation Technician plays a critical role in supporting Amycel's culture production and strain certification programs. This position is responsible for producing, testing, tracking, and maintaining inoculation materials used throughout Amycel's research, development, and production operations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare various types of media to support the growth requirements of different mushroom strains.
• Inoculate and shake grain bags used for strain certification activities.
• Assist with pouch inoculation, incubation, cool-down processes, and production scheduling.
• Perform pouch selection activities for inoculum production.
• Prepare and autoclave milo pouches for nutraceutical production.
• Routinely monitor inventory and remove outdated materials as needed.
• Carry out sterility certification plating for all inoculation products.
• Aid in reading sterility plates and collecting quality data.
• Perform pH and moisture analyses for inoculation and spawn substrates.
• Support BIPS batch certification and maintain records for PCR testing activities.
• Ensure accurate documentation and compliance with quality standards.
• Aid in packing and shipping inoculation products to Amycel facilities.
• Cook up certification mini-bag deliveries to ITF.
• Conduct monthly inventories of laboratory materials and supplies.
• Perform pouch inventory reconciliations and maintain inventory accuracy within JDE.
• Create, transfer, and close production work orders in JDE.
• Maintain culture maintenance databases using JDE and Access-based systems.
• Enter inoculation production information on a daily basis.
• Generate reports and production records as requested.
• Maintain accurate documentation and recordkeeping practices.
• Perform routine laboratory sanitation and clean-up activities.
• Assist in maintaining laboratory equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Follow laboratory safety protocols and clean room procedures.
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to laboratory operations and efficiency.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Knowledge of sterile techniques and clean room procedures.
• Understanding of long-term culture storage methods.
• Knowledge of growth parameters for production strains and inoculation substrates.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and data entry.
• Strong attention to detail and aptitude for highly detailed work.
• Able to work independently while maintaining accuracy and productivity.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Able to adapt to changing priorities and environments.

Qualifications

• Experience or ability to learn the operation of: pH meters, moisture analyzers, oxygen monitors, temperature and humidity data loggers, laboratory balances, autoclaves, laminar flow units, culture refrigerators and incubators, Bunsen burners, standard laboratory glassware and testing equipment, Microsoft Office applications and database systems.

Skills

• Technical Skills & Equipment: Experience or ability to learn the operation of: pH meters, moisture analyzers, oxygen monitors, temperature and humidity data loggers, laboratory balances, autoclaves, laminar flow units, culture refrigerators and incubators, Bunsen burners, standard laboratory glassware and testing equipment, Microsoft Office applications and database systems.

Benefits

At Amycel, we believe in providing a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures that all employees feel welcome and supported in their roles.

Pay

$18.00 per hour

Schedule

7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Monday – Friday

Section Folded

Fold minor metadata into a short paragraph or drop it.