Overview
BIOWEG is seeking a Senior Fermentation Specialist to own day-to-day fermentation execution from preparation to batch handover. You will keep production moving safely and reliably by coordinating people, process, equipment and documentation.This is a hands-on operations role for someone comfortable working with larger fermentation vessels, PLC-guided equipment, and CIP systems in a manufacturing environment, with high standards for quality and process discipline. Apply now to help scale BIOWEG’s fermentation operations and bring bio-based alternatives to market.
Your Role
- Lead day-to-day fermentation operations in large-scale vessels from preparation through batch handover
- Coordinate and execute media preparation and batch start activities, ensuring operational readiness across equipment, materials, documentation, and people
- Monitor process performance, manage deviations, and escalate issues using defined procedures
- Operate and supervise PLC-guided process equipment to ensure safe, stable, and compliant batch execution
- Plan and oversee CIP execution and readiness for the next operation
- Maintain accurate batch records, electronic records, and shift handovers with strong documentation discipline
- Troubleshoot process and equipment issues with cross-functional teams and drive practical corrective actions
- Manage and train operators, reinforcing safe work practices and quality expectations aligned with EHS expectations and ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 principles
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that increase reliability, reduce waste, improve right-first-time performance, and strengthen operational control
Your Profile
- Degree or equivalent experience in bioprocessing, biotechnology, fermentation, chemical engineering, food technology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, or a related discipline
- Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience running fermentation or bioprocess manufacturing operations in an industrial or quality-driven environment
- Proficiency across core fermentation operations including media preparation, batch start or inoculation, process monitoring, CIP, and production documentation
- Experience operating or supervising PLC- or SCADA-guided equipment and interpreting trends, alarms, and operating parameters
- Experience coordinating or leading operators and planning day-to-day execution
- Strong working knowledge of EHS expectations including chemical safety and permit-to-work or lockout/tagout principles
- Familiarity with quality systems and GMP-like documentation practices, with exposure to deviation handling, CAPA, change control, and ISO 9001 or ISO 14001ishighly desirable
- Ownership mindset with calm, structured problem-solving and clear communication, able to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced startup environment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; German is a plus