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Fermentation Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Translate fermentation data into clear, actionable technical recommendations and business-relevant ... PhD or Master's degree in Microbiology, Fermentation Science, Yeast Physiology, Bioprocess ...

Fermentation Manager

Akron, OH

$17.25 - $20/hr

Education and Experience: * BS (+10 y), MS(+5 y) or PhD degree in Life Sciences, Chemistry ... Minimum 5 - 10 years of fermentation experience in an industrial setting. PhD with post doctorate ...

Bachelors Degree in either Physical Science (such as Microbiology, Fermentation) or Engineering, isrequired. * 3+ years of hands-on experience withlab or pilot scale fermentationisrequired. * 5+ ...

Operator - Fermentation

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Make proper fermentation nutrient additions as specified by the mash design. * Ensure that all ... Excellent science and math aptitude. desirable skills and knowledge * Experience in food, chemical ...

Operator - Fermentation

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Make proper fermentation nutrient additions as specified by the mash design. * Ensure that all ... Excellent science and math aptitude. desirable skills and knowledge * Experience in food, chemical ...

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Fermentation Scientist information

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$71K

$102.3K

$142.5K

How much do fermentation scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for fermentation scientist in the United States is $102,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a fermentation science degree?

A fermentation scientist can work in industries such as brewing, food production, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels, focusing on developing and optimizing fermentation processes. The degree provides skills in microbiology, biochemistry, and laboratory techniques, often requiring knowledge of equipment like bioreactors and analytical tools. Career roles include research scientist, quality control specialist, process development engineer, and production manager.

What is a Fermentation Scientist job?

A Fermentation Scientist specializes in the study and application of microbial fermentation processes to produce food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and bio-based products. They work with microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, and fungi to optimize fermentation conditions, improve yields, and ensure product quality. Their role often involves research, process development, troubleshooting, and collaboration with engineers and production teams. Fermentation Scientists are commonly employed in industries like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and biofuels.

What are the typical career development opportunities for a Fermentation Scientist?

As a Fermentation Scientist, you can expect to start with hands-on research and process development, often collaborating with multidisciplinary teams in industries such as food, beverage, pharmaceuticals, or biotechnology. Over time, professionals in this role may advance to senior scientist positions, project management, or leadership roles overseeing fermentation operations and strategy. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like strain development, process optimization, or regulatory compliance, expanding your expertise and career options. Continuous learning and taking on cross-functional projects can further accelerate your professional growth in this dynamic field.

How much does a fermentation scientist make?

The average salary for a fermentation scientist ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals in this field often work in laboratories or production facilities, utilizing skills in microbiology and bioprocessing.

What does a fermentation scientist do?

A fermentation scientist researches and develops processes to produce products through microbial fermentation, such as beverages, biofuels, and pharmaceuticals. They design experiments, analyze data, and optimize fermentation conditions using tools like bioreactors and lab equipment, often requiring knowledge of microbiology, chemistry, and process engineering.

How to become a fermentation scientist?

To become a fermentation scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in microbiology, biochemistry, or a related field is required, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline. Gaining experience through internships or research projects, developing skills in laboratory techniques and fermentation processes, and familiarizing oneself with tools like bioreactors are also important steps.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fermentation Scientist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fermentation Scientist, you need a strong background in microbiology, biochemistry, and analytical techniques, usually supported by a degree in a related scientific field. Experience with fermentation equipment, bioreactors, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and familiarity with relevant safety certifications are crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help distinguish top professionals in this role. These skills and qualities are important for ensuring process efficiency, product quality, and successful cross-functional collaboration in fermentation-based industries.

More about Fermentation Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Fermentation Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Fermentation Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fermentation Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Fermentation Scientist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Fermentation Scientist jobs? The top employers for Fermentation Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Fermentation Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Fermentation Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fermentation Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 43% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,308 per year, or $49.2 per hour.
Application Scientist, Yeast Expert

Application Scientist, Yeast Expert

Iff

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Are you passionate about innovation that transforms everyday products into extraordinary experiences?

IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences, we deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products.

Health & Biosciences:Channeling our passion for nature and bioscience into sustainable, life-enhancing technologiesthat powerinnovative solutions across healthcare, food, consumer and industrial markets.

The role is tied to either our Cedar Rapids, Wilmington, or Palo Alto location. Be part of a creative, agile team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration.

Where You'll Make a Difference

  • Serve as a technical subject matter expert in yeast physiology, fermentation performance, and process optimization for fuel ethanol and potable alcohol applications
  • Design, execute, and interpret bench- and pilot-scale fermentation experiments to support internal development projects and customer needs
  • Lead and support customer trials, including trial design, execution, on-site troubleshooting, and post-trial data analysis
  • Translate fermentation data into clear, actionable technical recommendations and business-relevant insights
  • Present technical findings and conclusions to diverse audiences, including Research & Development (R&D), Sales, Business teams, and customers
  • Support commercialization of yeast and enzyme solutions through application evaluation, scale-up assistance, and post-launch technical support
  • Collaborate cross-functionally within a global, multidisciplinary organization to advance product, technology, and customer objectives
  • Mentor and support the development of junior scientists and technicians, strengthening fermentation and analytical capabilities within the lab

What Makes You the Right Fit

  • PhD or Master's degree in Microbiology, Fermentation Science, Yeast Physiology, Bioprocess Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
  • Industry experience in fuel ethanol and/or potable alcohol fermentation, with hands-on exposure to yeast performance and process challenges
  • Strong working knowledge of yeast physiology, stress responses, and substrate interactions in grain-based fermentations
  • Demonstrated experience designing and running bench-scale fermentations; exposure to pilot or plant-scale environments is preferred
  • Experience leading or supporting customer trials and working directly with customers in an applied or technical service role
  • Strong analytical skills related to fermentation performance, yield optimization, and product evaluation
  • Ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts in written reports and oral presentations
  • Proven ability to work independently while contributing effectively within cross-functional teams
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to support customer trials and technical engagements

How Would You Stand Out?

  • Experience presenting technical results to commercial or business-focused audiences
  • Prior experience mentoring, coaching, or developing junior scientists or technicians
  • Ability to connect scientific insight with application performance and commercial impact

Why Choose Us?

  • Opportunity to work on impactful, industrial-scale fermentation challenges with real customer outcomes
  • Blend of hands-on laboratory work and customer-facing technical leadership
  • Collaborative, global team environment with strong cross-functional interaction
  • Exposure to product development through commercialization and post-launch support
  • Commitment to scientific excellence, learning, and professional growth
  • Competitive compensation and benefits within a purpose-driven organization

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more