Pilot Plant Fermentation Intern

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of the soil microbiome, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in agriculture. Our products harness the power of naturally occurring microbes to provide nutrients to crops and new sustainable ways for farmers to reduce the usage of fertilizers as they work to help feed the world’s growing population.

Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour. 

Position:  Pivot Bio Summer Intern-Pilot Plant Fermentation 

Summer 2023 Internship May - August 2023  

We are looking for an intern who thrives in a pilot plant setting and scaling-up with hands-on operations of fermentation systems and associated downstream biomass recovery processes if needed.  

Responsibilities:  

In this role, an intern will:    

• Shadow the team to understand process operations 
• Assist team members with preparing media, calibrating probes, setting up/operating equipment, recording process parameters, taking samples, measuring pH/optical density, tearing down and cleaning equipment 
• Maintain an organized and safe workplace 
• Attend group meetings and contribute to team discussions 
• Monitor work for accuracy, manage multiple responsibilities, and maintain professionalism 
• Other duties as assigned 

 Physical Demands:  

• Routinely walking, standing for long hours, sampling, and working in pilot plant environment 
• Driving between Berkeley and Hayward and other locations as needed 
• Regularly lifting objects (up to 25 lbs) 

Qualifications and Experience:  

• Currently pursuing a bachelor's or higher degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biology, chemistry, Environmental studies and/or related field 
• Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record  
• Strong verbal and communication skills 
• Ability to self-manage time and execute on assigned responsibilities 
• Must live in assigned territory 
• Must be at least 20 years old for rental car purposes 

*Must be authorized to work in the United States  

What we offer:  

• Opportunity to gain professional experience in a progressive company 
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team