Downstream Processing Operator

Inscripta; Augusta (GA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Inscripta is seeking a Downstream Processing Operator in Augusta, GA. The role involves operating the fermentation plant efficiently, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and maintaining equipment. Candidates must have at least 3 years of relevant experience, be strong team players with good communication skills, and be familiar with fermentation processes. The position offers a full-time schedule with the potential for varying shifts depending on production needs. Preferred candidates should have SAP and Delta V controls experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years fermentation or related plant operator experience.
• Must be able to follow minimal instructions and support safe work practices.
• Familiar with production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Interface with production to solve fermentation and product isolation problems.
• Prepare fermentation and downstream equipment according to SOPs.
• Coordinate day-to-day Fermentation Plant activities including troubleshooting.

Skills

Fermentation process management

Communication skills

Teamwork

Basic PC skills

Education

High school diploma or GED equivalent

Tools

SAP

Delta V controls

Job description

Manus works across industries and value chains to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives – better performing and more sustainable versions of complex molecules traditionally sourced from plants, animals, or fossil fuels. Our platform is proven to work across scales, bridging the Valley of Death between lab and manufacturing more efficiently and more reliably to deliver the benefits of synthetic biology today. We are seeking a highly motivated Fermentation Plant Operator. This person will be expected to play an integral part of Manus Bio’s manufacturing and process development team located in Augusta, GA.

The Downstream Processing Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes maintenance, equipment reliability, and operations. Creativity and decision‑making skills are required. Must be able to maintain a good working relationship with all personnel. Work as a member of the fermentation plant team which includes assisting in the Pilot Plant. Controls, monitors, and measures fermentation processes as instructed. Abides by all safety, environmental, and quality requirements. Perform minor maintenance and duties related to product testing, including sampling.

Responsibilities

• Interface with production to provide resources to solve fermentation and product isolation problems and help evaluate fermentation experiments. This activity includes:
• Prepare fermentation and downstream equipment in accordance to SOPs, this includes equipment setup, media make up, equipment disassembly, cleaning, etc.
• Collect samples during manufacturing process for analytical analysis.
• Prepare all required batch records, reflect constantly changing experimental designs and ensure clear communication to the process development subject matter expert of the targeted design parameters.
• Collect and review all batch records. Data reduction includes electronic data conversion into and formatting in Excel for purposes of trending key operational parameters. Data is reviewed and checked. Off‑line analytical data is reviewed for accuracy, retesting if necessary. Final results are organized and distributed to the process development subject matter expert.
• Coordinate day‑to‑day Fermentation Plant activities, including manufacturing scheduling conflicts, coordinating equipment maintenance and installation activities, troubleshooting process upsets, troubleshooting equipment and instrumentation problems, optimizing operations, addressing contamination issues, addressing downtime or other runtime losses.
• Prepare SOP for new process or operations as needed.
• Assist and provide hands‑on support of Fermentation Plant maintenance activities, including rebuilding probes and housings, changing out gearboxes on vessels, rebuilding valves, piping modifications, and modifying/fabricating new and existing equipment.
• Maintain the upkeep of the Fermentation Plant equipment through the process of initiating work notifications/work orders and maintenance scheduling; use your own tools to correct minor maintenance issues is encouraged.
• Adhere to company EH&S policies and procedure. Ensure fermentation plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Physical demand requirements are in excess of sedentary work due to inspection of equipment. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders.
• Must be able to wear required protective equipment including respirators (if needed).
• Work schedule is considered shift but will vary depending on manufacturing plan and other extraordinary conditions.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or GED equivalent.

• Minimum of 3 years fermentation or related plant operator experience.
• Must be able to follow minimal instructions and support safe work practices.
• Must be an excellent team member with strong communication skills and a desire to work collaboratively.
• Must be flexible with day‑to‑day duties and able to thrive in a start‑up environment.
• Must hold themselves to the highest professional and ethical standards.
• Familiar with the production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment as well as microbiological and analytical laboratory procedures.
• Demonstrates flexibility in job rotations/various assignments.
• Basic PC skills which include Windows, Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualification and Working Style

• SAP skills
• Certified Train the Trainer skills
• Delta V controls experience

Job Type: Regular, Full‑Time

Employee Status: Permanent