Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator

Cypress HCM; Augusta (GA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Our client in biotech manufacturing seeks a Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator to support fermentation and downstream work. Responsibilities include equipment upkeep, sampling, batch execution, and maintaining GMP-compliant batch records.

You will handle downstream purification steps, set up and clean equipment, collect samples, and ensure safe operation with EHS compliance. Shift flexibility and startup environment experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of downstream or related plant operator experience.
• Familiarity with production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment, plus microbiological and analytical lab procedures
• Comfortable with day-to-day flexibility and rotating assignments in a start-up environment
• Basic PC skills (Windows, Microsoft Office)

Responsibilities

• Perform downstream purification operations, including centrifugation, chromatography, and filtration.
• Set up, operate, and clean process equipment such as columns, tanks, and filtration systems.
• Execute batch records, monitor process parameters, and keep batch documentation accurate.
• Collect, label, and process in-process and final product samples.
• Run CIP/SIP cleaning and sterilization of equipment and cleanroom areas.
• Troubleshoot process upsets, equipment and instrumentation issues, contamination, and downtime.
• Initiate work orders, schedule maintenance, and handle minor repairs.
• Support deviation investigations and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work with upstream, quality, and process development teams to keep product moving.
• Maintain DSP consumables inventory.
• Follow all EHS and quality requirements.

Skills

Downstream ops

Fermentation

Lab procedures

Shift work

MS Office

PPE usage

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SAP

Job description

Our client, a growing biotech manufacturer, is looking for a Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator to join their manufacturing and process development team. You’ll keep the pilot plant running efficiently, supporting both fermentation and downstream work, including equipment upkeep, sampling, and batch execution.

What You’ll Do

• Perform downstream purification operations, including centrifugation, chromatography (affinity, ion exchange), and filtration (TFF, depth, sterile)
• Set up, operate, and clean process equipment such as columns, tanks, and filtration systems
• Execute batch records, monitor process parameters, and keep batch documentation accurate
• Collect, label, and process in-process and final product samples
• Run CIP/SIP cleaning and sterilization of equipment and cleanroom areas
• Troubleshoot process upsets, equipment and instrumentation issues, contamination, and downtime
• Initiate work orders, schedule maintenance, and handle minor repairs
• Support deviation investigations and continuous improvement initiatives
• Work with upstream, quality, and process development teams to keep product moving
• Maintain DSP consumables inventory
• Follow all EHS and quality requirements

Required

• High school diploma or GED
• 3+ years of downstream or related plant operator experience
• Familiarity with production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment, plus microbiological and analytical lab procedures
• Comfortable with day-to-day flexibility and rotating assignments in a start-up environment
• Basic PC skills (Windows, Microsoft Office)

Preferred

• SAP experience
• Train-the-Trainer certification
• Shift work, with the schedule varying based on the manufacturing plan
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and lift up to 50 lbs
• Must be able to wear required PPE, including respirators when needed

Pay Range:

$17.75 - $32/hr. depending on experience