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Protein Design Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

AP Biology Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

AP Biology Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways. Guides students through experimental design, data analysis using ...

Showing results 21-33

Protein Design information

What is the difference between Protein Design vs Protein Engineering?

AspectProtein DesignProtein Engineering
Required CredentialsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, BioinformaticsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, academiaResearch labs, biotech companies, academia
Industry UsageDesigning novel proteins, drug development, synthetic biologyModifying existing proteins for improved function or stability

Protein Design focuses on creating new proteins with specific functions, often using computational methods. Protein Engineering involves modifying existing proteins to enhance or alter their properties. Both roles require similar skills and are used in research, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries, but their goals differ: one designs from scratch, the other optimizes existing proteins.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in protein design, and how are they addressed within a team setting?

Professionals in protein design often encounter challenges such as predicting accurate protein folding, ensuring stability, and achieving desired biological activity. These complexities are typically addressed through close collaboration with computational biologists, structural biologists, and experimental scientists. Teams frequently hold cross-functional meetings to troubleshoot issues, share findings, and iterate on design strategies based on laboratory results. This collaborative environment helps leverage diverse expertise and accelerates the development of novel proteins with desired functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a protein design scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protein Design Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and computational modeling, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Proficiency with tools such as Rosetta, PyMOL, and molecular dynamics simulation software, as well as experience with protein expression and purification techniques, is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills to drive innovation and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing functional proteins, troubleshooting experiments, and advancing research goals in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development.

What is protein design?

Protein design is the process of creating new proteins or modifying existing ones to have specific functions or properties. This can involve using computational tools, laboratory techniques, or a combination of both to predict and engineer amino acid sequences that will fold into desired three-dimensional structures. Protein design is used in various fields, including medicine, biotechnology, and research, to develop novel enzymes, therapeutics, or materials. The field requires a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and computer science to achieve successful outcomes.

What are popular job titles related to Protein Design jobs in Iowa?

For Protein Design jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Protein Design jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Protein Design jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Protein Design jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Protein Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Protein Design job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY: Responsible for the strategic oversight and leadership required to operate and maintain a 975,000 square foot animal protein production facility which includes a 195,000-pound ammonia system, 32-million-gallon wastewater treatment facility, rendering and steam generation operation, thirty-eight (38) million pound distribution center, axis robotic and automation systems. Leads a team consisting of 6 direct reports and 200+ engineering and maintenance technicians and specialist. This team is charged with planning and scheduling, preventive and corrective maintenance activities, special projects, and facility enhancements designed to look at product and workforce improvements. Oversees all capital expenditures, projects and facility expansions while maintaining production efficiencies within budgetary parameters and driving continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: This list is not intended to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.

  • Responsible for aligning the business strategy to technology and innovation available that would provide for feasible and realistic options.
  • Uses data analytics to monitor systems and processes, make projections, and provide solutions and options to better manage the facility in a sustainable and effective manner.
  • Responsible for and the authority on generating all needed information to support appropriations requests (AR's) for the facility.
  • Acts as the facility expert to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions with several abstract and concrete variables.
  • Collaborates with all stakeholders to ensure success. Understands the role of business ethics in building professional relationships with contractors, suppliers, and vendors to ensure successful expectations, negotiations, and outcomes.
  • Propose, design and introduce options for new equipment, automation, and process design within the facility to maximize production and labor efficiencies while improving product quality.
  • Understands and is knowledgeable of all local, state, and federal laws and regulations including Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Ensures program execution and compliance in all areas.
  • Manages the grounds property management services in the aspects of snow removal, lawncare, landscaping, irrigation, trash removal, and parking lot upkeep.

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

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical or electrical engineering preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 5-8 years of experience working with ammonia refrigeration and freezer systems.
  • Wide and deep management experience 8+ years with demonstrated leadership and people development skills.
  • Proven experience developing strategy and policy in order to set and deliver objectives within medium to long term timeframes.
  • Strong electrical background (PLC, instrumentation, industrial electrical experience) preferred

COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and/or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from management, and employees. Must have the ability to influence and persuade others.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read and interpret documents in the English language such as safety files, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Must be able to effectively communicate with the USDA, customers, sales, production and management personnel. Bilingual skills a plus.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to apply mathematical applications to practical situations.

REASONING ABILITY: Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical, diagram, written and/or verbal form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Strong personal computer skills and understanding of operational metrics and reports required; MP2 CMMS desired; CAD experience a plus. MPS/SFK equipment understanding, both mechanically and electrically strongly desired. SQF/HACCP certification preferred. Must hold a valid driver's license due to regular business travel.

MISSION, VISION, & VALUES: Must believe and lead STF's MISSION of producing quality pork products, igniting the passion and growth of our team members, helping our community thrive, and making our business prosperous. Remembering that together we will achieve more by working safely and cultivating an inclusive and empowering environment. Must believe and fully engage in STF's VISION of being a place where we all belong, working as one, to build our future. Must live STF's VALUES in all decisions, behaviors, and interactions, which include-

SAFETY- Be committed to the safety and welfare of all employees through prevention, education, and awareness, with the ultimate goal of eliminating workplace accidents.

QUALITY- Our customers and families depend on us to provide a safe, quality product, by maintaining the highest food safety standards and desired customer specifications. Must take pride in the products we produce and serve.

DIVERSITY- We embrace diversity of identity, experience, and thought, and actively strive for inclusive behaviors across our company and our work. By promoting these values, we aim to create a positive work experience that encourage a sense of belonging.

COMMUNITY- Be a positive representative of STF in our community while supporting the organizations who work for the betterment of Siouxland.

SUSTAINABILITY- Be a steward of the earth by managing our environmental footprint.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS
: While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to move about the facility. The employee is required to sit; use hands to finger; handle; or feel/hold objects; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; speak; hear taste and smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Individual must be able to effectively work in a normal production environment where temperatures and noise levels may vary, including climate extremes and a loud work environment. Generally, the incumbent may stand and walk for extended periods of time and also must be able to sit and use a computer for extended periods of time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to hot, cold and/or humid conditions. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, risk of electrical shock and vibration may exist. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud requiring hearing protection in all protection areas.