Research Assistant

Job Title

Research Assistant

Department

Research and Development

Position Description

American Peat Technology is searching for a Research Assistant who will support Product Development and Quality Control (QC) operations in a laboratory focused on microbiological and physical property testing of agricultural granular inoculants. The role centers on hands-on laboratory work with Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1) organisms and a range of analytical tasks required to ensure product quality and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, self-directed, and eager to build an emerging microbiology initiative into a fully functional and dynamic program for new product lines. This is an opportunity for a curious self-starter to join a small team and to produce new product lines and provide long-lasting value for a company with a history of rewarding its hard-working stars with generous compensation and benefits.

The schedule for this position is generally Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. Other days and hours are occasionally required. Work locations include APT’s main plant and APT2 located in the city of Aitkin.

This position starts at $73,500/year, paid bi-weekly in accordance with the Company's standard payroll practices. This is an exempt position.

APT offers PTO, a medical and dental plan, matching 401K and charitable giving plans, and paid volunteer opportunities.

This position reports to the Technical Director and works closely with other members of the R&D team.

Job Duties

Microbiological Testing

- Perform quality control microbiology at the Aitkin MN sites.

- Conduct standard plate count methods for enumeration of viable microorganisms in granular, and liquid inoculant samples.

- Maintain cultures and handle BSL-1 organisms according to safety and aseptic technique protocols.

Physical Property Analysis

- Accurately measure and record moisture content of granule products.

- Perform pH assessments of products or suspensions using calibrated meters.

- Determine and document bulk density for QC batch testing.

- Additional tests not listed here.

Process Development

- Planning and execution of process development and process validation trials.

Laboratory Record Keeping, Data Reporting & Lab Management

- Maintain detailed digital and paper laboratory notebooks (data entry, batch records, calibration logs).

- Prepare and deliver QC reports, highlighting nonconformance or trends as appropriate.

- Order laboratory supplies, document procedures and ensure that operating conditions are maximized.

Planning & Communication

- Schedule and prioritize routine QC sample workflows in coordination with production or R&D teams.

- Communicate clearly with team members, supervisors, and other departments regarding results, issues, and scheduling.

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

- Investigate deviations or unexpected results in testing; implement corrective actions as instructed.

- Assist with periodic review and update of laboratory SOPs and safety documents.

Safety & Compliance

- Adhere strictly to laboratory safety protocols; ensure proper use and maintenance of PPE and equipment.

- Participate in ongoing training related to biosafety, chemical safety, and laboratory best practices.

Position Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.

Five years of prior laboratory experience in microbiology or QC setting is required. Demonstrated proficiency in standard plating techniques, use of balances, pH meters, and moisture analysis equipment.

The preferred candidate will be willing to work onsite at the Rossburg and Aitkin plant locations, with periodic travel and off-site work locations as requested.

Familiarity with working with BSL-1 organisms and a commitment to safe lab practices.

Proven ability to work semi-autonomously — efficiently managing tasks, prioritizing workload, and driving projects with minimal supervision.

Meticulous attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and strong record-keeping habits.

Strong communication skills (verbal and written) for cross-team collaboration and formal reporting.

Problem-solving mindset, with the ability to troubleshoot technical or procedural issues as they arise. Excellent anticipatory and organizational skills.

Strong technical skills and proficiency in use of Microsoft office applications including Word, Ex-cel, Visio, and PowerPoint. Ability to learn other software as needed.

Demonstrated ability to work with and communicate with individuals at all levels and functions (technical and non-technical), internal and external to the organization.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, to coordinate a set of diverse assignments and remain flexible and composed.

Willingness and aptitude to work at the bench and on your feet for large portions of the workday.

Project management and process improvement experience preferred.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $73,500.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Flexible spending account

- Health insurance

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Professional development assistance

- Tuition reimbursement

- Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

- Aitkin, MN 56431 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

- Aitkin, MN 56431: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person