Pilot Plant Technician

Zymofix NV; Deinze; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Zymofix NV in Belgium is seeking a Pilot Plant Technician to join its growing team. You will operate and optimize the company's pilot plant operations, covering fermentation, substrate production, and downstream processes.

The role requires hands-on maintenance, problem solving, and collaboration with contractors for microbially based production and new-build expansions as the plant scales. Join a startup focused on sustainable agriculture and contribute to cutting-edge microbial solutions that

Qualifications

• Experience operating and maintaining pilot plant installations.
• Experience with fermentation substrate production and microorganism cultivation.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and perform preventive maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Operate, maintain and analyze pilot plant installations across fermentation, lab analysis and downstream processing.
• Produce fermentation substrates using a novel thermophysical pretreatment system.
• Cultivate microorganisms in pilot-scale solid-state fermenters.
• Perform preventive and reactive maintenance and troubleshoot equipment issues.
• Coordinate with external contractors for small-scale construction tasks.
• Provide onsite support for larger pilot-plant projects.

Skills

Pilot plant operation

Fermentation

Laboratory analysis

Preventive maintenance

Troubleshooting

Project coordination

Equipment maintenance

Job description

Zymofix is a dynamic and innovative startup dedicated to fostering sustainable and circular agriculture. We specialize in creating effective and economically viable microbial products designed to reduce farmers' reliance on agrochemicals while maintaining high productivity. Positioned at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower farmers to grow healthy crops and improve yields without resorting to chemical fertilizers. Zymofix is planning the construction of an industrial-scale demonstration plant in 2027.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities

We are looking for a Pilot Plant Technician with a critical mindset to join our team. You will be responsible for:

• Operating, maintaining, and analyzing the existing pilot plant installations, covering substrate production, the fermentation section, laboratory analysis, and downstream processing
• Production of fermentation substrates using a novel thermophysical pretreatment system.
• Cultivation of microorganisms in several pilot-scale solid-state fermenters.
• Managing and maintaining the equipment/machine park, carrying out both preventive and reactive maintenance, including troubleshooting technical issues.
• Assisting with small-scale construction projects (e.g. installing drying ovens, cleanroom ventilation), sometimes coordinating with external contractors.
• Providing onsite assistance for larger new-build projects as the pilot plant expands.