The Center for Crops Utilization Research (CCUR) in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is seeking a Technical Project Specialist I to support fermentation and pilot plant operations within a dynamic research and industry-collaborative environment. This position provides hands-on support for technical projects, assists with equipment and process operations, and contributes to data generation and documentation that advance research and product development activities. The successful candidate will work closely with supervisors, senior technical staff, and external partners to help ensure project success, operational efficiency, and adherence to safety and quality standards.
Example of Duties
Assist with planning and executing technical projects by gathering requirements, preparing materials, organizing resources, and performing assigned experimental steps.
Support fermentation and pilot plant operations by completing routine equipment cleaning, basic checks, SIP/CIP procedures, and reporting issues to senior staff.
Collect, record, and verify data; maintain accurate documentation of activities; and contribute to preparing reports and presentations for project stakeholders.
Coordinate project logistics, including scheduling tasks, maintaining inventory, preparing raw materials, and assisting with risk assessments under supervision.
Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot operational challenges, refine project processes, and ensure compliance with safety and quality requirements.
Learn and apply standard laboratory and process-development techniques while working closely with supervisors and experienced technical staff.
Serve as a liaison to industry or university partners as assigned and perform other duties as needed.
About Us
The Center for Crops Utilization Research (CCUR) supports innovation in bioprocessing, value-added agriculture, and food and industrial product development by providing pilot-scale facilities, fermentation capabilities, and technical expertise to university researchers and industry partners.
This is a term appointment with the possibility of renewal.
Level Guidelines
• Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision
• Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode
• Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope
• Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained
• Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate
• May lead projects of limited scope and complexity
• May provide guidance to students
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program