Lead Technician, Life Sciences Biotechnology

Location: San Diego, CA

We are seeking a Lead Technician to support the biosynthetic discovery of novel natural ingredients. The selected candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with world-class experts in synthetic biology, chemistry, natural fractionation, analytical, and data sciences. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform daily laboratory experiments in biochemistry, molecular biology, and microbiology, including shared laboratory maintenance. 

• Work with plasmid/genomic DNA and proteins, including sequence analysis. 

• Play a major role in enzyme production and screening. 

• Perform routine small-molecule analyses using LC-MS and GC-MS. 

• Contribute to developing new biochemical techniques; analyze data and write technical reports. 

• Collaborate effectively with an interdisciplinary research team while adhering to internal Health Safety & Environment (HS&E) standards and policies. 

We Bring:

• A science led company with cutting edge research– from state-of-the-art receptor screening, microbiome technologies, synthetic biology, chemistry & analytical science capabilities that are game-changers in the global arena.
• Exposure to unique career paths across flavor, health, nutrition, fragrance & beauty.
• A culture that lifts you up – with collaborative teams, shared wins, and people who cheer each other on.
• Join an industry leader that will develop your expertise and leadership.
• A chance to impact millions of consumers every day with sustainability embedded in everything we do.

You Bring:

• B.S. with 1–2 years of relevant experience, or M.S. in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with DNA assembly/cloning, microbial strain engineering, DNA/protein sequence software and databases.
• Experience with protein expression and enzyme activity assays.
• Demonstrated willingness to learn new techniques and develop new skills.
• Ability to manage multiple technically diverse projects, with flexibility and independence in both planning & execution of experiments.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly present technical results.

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. This position is also eligible for bonuses and benefits, which are not included in the pay scale provided. Salary $75,000-$95,000.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future. 

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

The application process

Interested in this position? Please apply online by uploading your resume in English no later than April 20, 2026.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.