DEMI GROUNDS
Quality Technician
Streamwood,IL
Summary
Highly-motivated quality control professional with 5 years of laboratory experience, 5 years of production management experience, and a degree in biology. Skilled in testing product against specifications throughout the process, analyzing data, and driving continuous improvement within a cross-functional team. Experienced in writing Standard Operating Procedures, Certificates of Analysis, and Specifications for individual product SKUs. OSHA certified, fork-lift certified and conversational Spanish-speaker.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Quality Technician
Mycocycle
07.2024 - 12.2025
- Supported a cross-functional team by calibrating laboratory equipment, performing preventative maintenance, generating stock cultures, preparing reagents, sterilizing tools, and preparing growth media (general lab housekeeping).
- Used, maintained, inventoried parts, and implemented all training documentation for benchtop bioreactor use in mushroom cultivation.
- Performed QC testing of liquid mushroom cultures, raw materials, in-process materials, and finished goods; ensured specification and CoA compliance.
- Maintained batch and quality records; performed internal audits and maintained QC Hold log.
- Coordinated with logistics companies and co-manufacturing partners to meet production needs.
- Authored SOPs; supported continuous improvement and enforced GMP adherence across production operations.
- Supported production through aseptic inoculations, routine environmental monitoring, and filling in general labor needs.
- Conducted investigation into questionable test results; performed Root Cause Analysis.
- Researched and implemented new testing protocols to be used across product lines.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent adherence to quality standards throughout the entire production process.
- Assisted in the development of new products by providing input on quality requirements and potential risks during design stages.
- Ensured traceability of all components through proper labeling, storage, and tracking methods, ultimately reducing misplaced items or mix-ups during production phases.
- Tracked and analyzed product quality data to identify trends and insights; prepared and presented slide decks of pertinent information in staff meetings.
- Reported problems and concerns to management.
Packaging Operations Manager & Yeast Propagation
Omega Yeast Labs
02.2018 - 07.2024
- Aseptically maintained yeast strain cultures; prepared microbial media for quality sampling; supported propagation and fermentation workflows in a cross-functional team as the company scaled.
- Produced wort on a manual brewhouse, performed CIP/SIP tank sanitation, and aseptically packaged/shipped yeast to customers.
- Authored and organized packaging operations SOPs, traceability documentation, training guides, and staff rotation schedules.
- Managed a team of 8 employees; trained packaging, shipping and sterilization staff in a hands-on learning environment.
- Led continuous improvement across shipping, packaging, steam sterilization, and propagation processes.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
Education
B.S. Biology - Plant Biology
Elmhurst University
01.2016
A.A. General Studies - undefined
College of DuPage
01.2013
Skills
- 5 years production management experience
- GMP compliant; in process of HACCP certification
- OSHA10 certified
- Forklift certified
- Conversational Spanish-speaker
- SOP writing and review
- Aseptic technique & culture maintenance
- Fermentation & yeast propagation workflows
- CIP/SIP sanitation
- Continuous improvement & cross-functional collaboration
- Detail-oriented and motivated worker
- Manages time well; thrives in a fast-paced environment
- Microsoft Office, Google Suite
- Tech-savvy self-starter
- Works well independently or in a team setting
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Additional roles:
- Chapter Lead - Pink Boots Society Nonprofit (2024-Present): Supporting and advancing the education of women and nonbinary individuals in the fermented beverage industry.
- Brewery Worker & Beer Server – Church Street & Pollyanna Brewing (2017–2018): Assisted with fermentation tasks, packaging, keg sanitation, and customer service in a keyholder role.
- Internships – Morton Arboretum (2014–2016): Conducted fungal subculturing, PCR identification, entomology research support, and media preparation.
- Student Lab Aide – Elmhurst University (2016): Supported lab setup and routine academic lab operations; prepared media and reagents.
Timeline
Quality Technician
Mycocycle
07.2024 - 12.2025
Packaging Operations Manager & Yeast Propagation
Omega Yeast Labs
02.2018 - 07.2024
A.A. General Studies - undefined
College of DuPage
B.S. Biology - Plant Biology
Elmhurst University