Lead Microbiologist: Fermentation & Process Optimization

Locus AG; Solon (OH); On-site; USD 68,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical/Dental/Vision benefits

401(k) with company match

Generous PTO

Paid holidays

Volunteer hours

Floating holidays

Tuition assistance and CE reimbursemen

Job summary

LOCUS FERMENTATION SOLUTION in Solon, OH, is seeking a Lead Microbiologist to head microbiology and fermentation within production. This role leads a team, drives process improvements, and ensures product quality and documentation meet regulatory standards.

The position requires hands-on leadership, development of SOPs, cross-functional collaboration with QC, R&D, and Operations, and building team capability through mentoring and training.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, or related field.
• 5–8+ years in Microbiology, Fermentation, or biomanufacturing.
• 2+ years of leadership experience.
• Deep expertise in fermentation, aseptic technique, and microbial testing methods.
• Strong data analysis and SOP/batch record development experience.
• ERP experience (NetSuite or similar).

Responsibilities

• Lead microbiology and fermentation operations to meet Solon production requirements.
• Audit operations, improve SOPs, and ensure aseptic and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot issues with Quality Control, R&D, and Operations; drive continuous improvement.
• Mentor and develop Microbiologist I/II staff; build technical capability.
• Develop training programs and mentor the team in microbiology competencies.
• Maintain microbial quality and documentation; ensure regulatory readiness.

Skills

Leadership

Data analysis

Aseptic technique

Fermentation

Microbial testing

Quality systems

Education

Bachelor's in Microbiology or related

Tools

NetSuite ERP

QA/QC systems

Job description

LOCUS FERMENTATION SOLUTION in Solon, OH, is seeking a Lead Microbiologist to head microbiology and fermentation within production. This role leads a team, drives process improvements, and ensures product quality and documentation meet regulatory standards.

The position requires hands-on leadership, development of SOPs, cross-functional collaboration with QC, R&D, and Operations, and building team capability through mentoring and training.