INDUSTRY TECHNICAL SPECIALIST - ETHANOL

Job Description

Summary: Our client knows how to put the amazing natural compounds found within the hops cone to work! This organization focuses on the technical support needed to apply these hop compounds to new applications that extend beyond the traditional brewing base. We are truly international in scope and we are vertically integrated with farms, processing facilities and technical expertise around the world!

About the role

This customer-facing role serves as a highly technical resource responsible for supporting the successful application of products and services within the ethanol and sugar industries, with a primary focus on the Midwest corn-belt territory. The position provides hands-on technical expertise to both customers and the sales team, helping optimize product performance through in-depth data analysis, technical problem-solving, and operational support. This individual will play a key role in driving customer success, strengthening relationships, and delivering value across the biofuel and sugar market segments.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for the industrial segment sales team during field trial set-up and trials, including onsite presence, optimization support, troubleshooting, emails, and joint calls with sales and customer contacts during the discovery phase.
• Carry out frequent follow-up calls and site visits with customers to perform process audits and assess product performance.
• Deliver technical presentations internally and externally, including trade shows such as the Fuel Ethanol Workshop.
• Maintain a broad industry knowledge base by developing technical skills at conferences, trade shows, and through collaboration with the sales team to understand processes and customer needs.
• Write technical trial summary reports utilizing statistical tools or models such as JMP, and develop plant trial protocols, fermentation data reviews.
• Aid internal departments in preparing training manuals, case studies, and technical publications.
• Document technical service activities, opportunities, and outcomes in CRM (Salesforce) to maintain accurate customer records, track opportunity pipeline progress, and align technical goals with sales objectives.
• Ensure all key technical interactions are captured in CRM (Salesforce) for visibility, accountability, and alignment with account planning.
• Conduct plant audits and recommend process improvements to enhance product application and outcomes.
• Apply technical troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to identify root causes and propose solutions that improve efficiency in ethanol plant operations.
• Provide ongoing customer training and technical service to ensure long-term success with products.
• Utilize data analysis tools (JMP) to support customers in decision-making and demonstrate product value.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Fermentation Science, Biofuels Processes, Biology, or a related technical field
• Progressive experience in technical services, laboratory fermentation, biofuels processes, or customer support within the ethanol industry or related industrial biotechnology fields
• Expert understanding of fermentation principles and yeast physiology
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot biological processes, bacterial contamination, and fermentation efficiency challenges in industrial settings
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to translate technical data into actionable insights
• High proficiency with IT tools including Microsoft Office Suite, JMP (or equivalent statistical analysis software), and CRM systems such as Salesforce
• Self-motivated, organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities independently across a regional territory
• Team-oriented mindset with commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and technical excellence
• Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record and passport for travel as needed
• Lifting and pulling up to 50 pounds (with assistance)

Preferred

• Master’s degree in a science-related field (such as Fermentation Science, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biofuels, Bioprocess Engineering, Biochemistry, or Applied Statistics)
• Extensive professional experience in the ethanol industry with a background in laboratory fermentation, yeast health and quality, or field-based technical support in related areas
• Proven ability to collaborate with sales teams and interface directly with customers in industrial environments
• Advanced technical background in fermentation science, yeast health monitoring, microbial contamination prevention, and ethanol process optimization
• Experience with fermentation QA/QC protocols, regulatory compliance, and industry standards related to ethanol production
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively from a home office with strong skills in self-motivation, organization, and proactive scheduling of travel and customer visits
• Highly motivated and detail-oriented with the ability to manage schedules, prioritize work, and anticipate customer and sales team needs

Benefits

Salary Range: $79,920 – $119,880 base salary, bonus opportunity, car program, and comprehensive benefits. *This compensation range reflects the company's expectations for this position at the time of posting. Actual pay will be determined based on factors such as relevant experience, alignment with role responsibilities, education, demonstrated skills, and performance during the interview process.