Senior Microbiologist - Fermentation Technology

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist specializing in fermentation technology for our Queenstown-based facility. The role is hands-on, on-site and focused on developing, optimizing, and scaling fermentation processes for food ingredients and beverages.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD and at least five years in industry, with strong skills in microbial physiology, bioreactor operation, and analytical methods such as HPLC, GC-MS and flow cytometry. Relocation support may be provided.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years in fermentation process development and optimization.
• Proven track record in applied microbiology, especially with yeasts or bacteria.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactors and fermentation monitoring/control systems.
• Strong knowledge of microbial physiology, genetics, and metabolic engineering.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up microbial fermentation processes for food ingredients and beverages.
• Lead research projects on strain improvement, media optimization, and process parameter control.
• Apply analytical techniques (HPLC, GC-MS, flow cytometry) to monitor performance and product quality.
• Troubleshoot fermentation issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Mentor junior staff and collaborate with engineers for technology transfer and scale-up.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and laboratory quality standards.

Skills

Fermentation

Bioreactors

Process monitoring

Analytical thinking

Education

Ph.D. in Microbiology / Biotechnology / Biochemical Engineering

Tools

HPLC

GC-MS

Flow cytometry

Downstream processing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the food and beverage industry, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Microbiologist with expertise in Fermentation Technology. This role is based at our advanced manufacturing and research facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This is a hands-on, on-site position critical for the development, optimization, and scale-up of fermentation processes. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of microbial physiology, metabolic engineering, and industrial fermentation techniques. You will lead projects aimed at enhancing the efficiency, yield, and quality of our fermented products. Join a team dedicated to innovation and excellence in food science, contributing to the creation of high-quality, sustainable products.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up microbial fermentation processes for the production of food ingredients and beverages.
• Lead research projects focused on strain improvement, media optimization, and process parameter control.
• Conduct detailed studies on microbial physiology, kinetics, and metabolic pathways relevant to fermentation.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC, GC-MS, flow cytometry) to monitor fermentation performance and product quality.
• Troubleshoot fermentation issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with process engineers and production teams to ensure smooth technology transfer and scale-up.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in industrial microbiology, fermentation technology, and biotechnology.
• Mentor junior microbiologists and technicians, providing technical guidance and training.
• Document research findings, develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), and contribute to technical reports.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP) and laboratory quality standards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on industrial fermentation.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant industry experience in fermentation process development and optimization.
• Proven track record in applied microbiology, particularly with yeasts, bacteria, or other relevant microorganisms.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactors, fermentation monitoring and control systems, and downstream processing.
• Strong understanding of microbial physiology, genetics, and metabolic engineering principles.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques for process monitoring and product characterization.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience in the food or beverage industry is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor junior staff.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, a retirement fund, and performance-based incentives. We provide excellent opportunities for professional development, including training programs and support for attending industry conferences. Employees have access to state-of-the-art fermentation facilities and analytical laboratories. We foster a collaborative and innovative work environment. Relocation assistance may be provided to suitable candidates moving to Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the innovation and growth of a leading company in the food and beverage sector.