Fermentation Process Scientist: Optimize Yields & Scale

Kerry; Rochester (MN); On-site; USD 70,100 - 122,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

401(k) plan with company match

Employee Share Plan

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Kerry is seeking a Process Scientist – Fermentation to own fermentation processes, drive optimization, and support scale-up from pilot to manufacturing. The role requires scientific leadership, collaboration with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and R&D to ensure safe, efficient production and robust process understanding through data analysis and experiments.

Responsibilities include CAPA, process standardization, and implementing new technologies to improve yield, cost, and cycle time.

Qualifications

• Requires advanced degree in a relevant science and hands-on fermentation experience.
• Proven ability to optimize production processes and scale-up from pilot to manufacturing.
• Strong data-driven mindset with DOE and statistical analysis skills.
• Experience with quality systems and contamination control is preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to lead cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Own assigned fermentation and downstream processes from an engineering perspective.
• Provide scientific guidance to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operations.
• Investigate deviations and quality issues with Operations and Quality teams.
• Monitor process capability and yield; drive CAPA and continuous improvements.
• Lead optimization projects for yield, cost reduction, cycle time, and capacity.
• Design and analyze pilot-scale and manufacturing-scale trials using DOE.
• Identify opportunities to simplify and standardize manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with Quality and R&D to establish robust analytical capabilities.
• Support new technology implementation for better performance.

Skills

Fermentation process development

Scale-up optimization

Design of Experiments (DOE)

Data analysis & visualization

Industrial microbiology

Troubleshooting & project management

Analytical instrumentation (HPLC/LC-MS

Communication & presentation

Education

Bachelor's/Master's/PhD in Microbiology or related field

Experience in biotechnology/fermentation industries

Tools

Bioreactors

Filtration systems

Centrifuges

Sterilization systems

Analytical equipment (HPLC/LC-MS/GC-MS)

Job description

Kerry is seeking a Process Scientist – Fermentation to own fermentation processes, drive optimization, and support scale-up from pilot to manufacturing. The role requires scientific leadership, collaboration with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and R&D to ensure safe, efficient production and robust process understanding through data analysis and experiments.

Responsibilities include CAPA, process standardization, and implementing new technologies to improve yield, cost, and cycle time.