Pilot Plant Operations Scientist (GMP)

Pharmaron; Hoddesdon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

On-site facilities

Training & development

Job summary

Pharmaron Hoddesdon is seeking a Plant Operations Scientist/Senior Plant Operations Scientist to support scale-up and manufacture of small-molecule APIs in a GMP pilot plant. You will work with process chemists to execute pilot-scale syntheses, operate 20–1000 L equipment, and ensure strict documentation and safety practices.

This role offers development opportunities from graduate level to senior, with possible mentoring responsibilities and involvement in technology transfer from R&D to GMP

Qualifications

• MSc or BSc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline or equivalent experience.
• GMP or regulated production experience is desirable for Scientist and essential for Senior.
• Strong awareness of health and safety in chemical processing.
• Practical problem-solving approach and willingness to learn.
• Ability to plan work carefully and maintain documentation.
• Excellent communication with process chemists and plant colleagues.
• Calm, measured approach when troubleshooting.
• Ability to adapt to evolving priorities and independent problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Support scale-up and execution of small-molecule synthesis in the pilot plant.
• Plan practical work with process chemists and plant operators.
• Operate, maintain, and develop pilot-scale equipment (20–1000 L reactors, filters, dryers, flow chemistry, chromatography) in GMP environment.
• Follow batch docs and SOPs accurately.
• Record data and complete documentation compliantly.
• Prepare and clean plant/equipment to prevent contamination.
• Collaborate with chemists, engineers, and QA for safe operations.
• Troubleshoot issues and grow independent pilot-plant capabilities.
• Develop knowledge of pilot-plant techniques and scale-up principles.

Skills

GMP experience

Attention to documentation

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Education

MSc or BSc in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering or related

Job description

Pharmaron Hoddesdon is seeking a Plant Operations Scientist/Senior Plant Operations Scientist to support scale-up and manufacture of small-molecule APIs in a GMP pilot plant. You will work with process chemists to execute pilot-scale syntheses, operate 20–1000 L equipment, and ensure strict documentation and safety practices.

This role offers development opportunities from graduate level to senior, with possible mentoring responsibilities and involvement in technology transfer from R&D to GMP