Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator

Manus Biosynthesis; Augusta (GA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Manus Biosynthesis in Augusta, GA is seeking a highly motivated Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator to join our manufacturing and process development team. You will monitor and operate the pilot plant, perform fermentation and downstream work, and support process development with experimentation and data collection.

The role requires adapting to a startup atmosphere, strong teamwork, and adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum of 3 years downstream or related plant operator experience.
• Must follow safety practices and instructions.
• Excellent team member with strong communication and collaboration.
• Flexible with day-to-day duties in a startup environment.
• Upholds high professional and ethical standards.
• Some familiarity with production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment.
• Basic PC skills including Windows and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Interface with process development to support fermentation and product isolation challenges.
• Execute and help evaluate experiments.
• Perform downstream purification operations (centrifugation, chromatography, filtration).
• Set up, operate, and clean process equipment (columns, tanks, filtration).
• Collect and process in-process and final samples; maintain batch records.
• Monitor process parameters and ensure accurate documentation.
• Perform cleaning, CIP/SIP, and maintain equipment and cleanrooms.
• Assist in deviation investigations and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment and instrumentation.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance.

Skills

Strong communication

Team player

Adaptability

Safety-conscious

Startup readiness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

MS Office

SAP

DeltaV controls

Job description

TerddHello

Driven by Purpose.

Guided by Principle.

And we need bright, talented minds to join our journey.

We are an inclusive, interdisciplinary team drawn from around the world, dedicated to the sustainable production of materials, chemicals, and ingredients.

Our purpose is to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives by delivering the benefits of biomanufacturing, today.

Our principles guide our journey and drive our commitment to ethical practices, scientific excellence, and innovation.

If you share our values and our passion, come join us.

We are seeking a highly motivated Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator, who will be expected to play an integral part of Manus Bio’s manufacturing and process development team located in Augusta, GA.

The Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the pilot plant. 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 pilot plant team which includes assisting both with fermentation and downstream work assignments. Controls, monitors, and measures processes as instructed. Abides by all safely, environmental, and quality requirements. Perform minor maintenance and duties related to product testing, including sampling.

Why work at Manus Bio:

• Opportunity – For motivated, results‑oriented team members, our growth creates opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
• Accountability – You are given the resources you need to succeed and the freedom to make it happen; in return, we hold each other accountable for our high expectations.
• Passion – We love what we do and enjoy working with others who feel the same way. We embrace the challenge and hard work that come with working on the cutting edge.

Responsibilities:

Interface with process development team to provide resources to solve fermentation and product isolation challenges. Execute and help evaluate experiments. This activity includes:

• Perform downstream purification operations including centrifugation, chromatography (e.g., affinity, ion exchange), filtration (TFF, depth, sterile).
• Set up, operate, and clean process equipment such as columns, tanks, and filtration systems.
• Collect, label, and process in‑process and final product samples.
• Monitor process parameters, record data, and ensure batch documentation is completed accurately.
• Perform cleaning and sterilization of equipment and cleanroom areas (CIP/SIP procedures).
• Assist in deviation investigations and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with upstream and quality departments to ensure efficient process flow and product quality.
• Maintain inventory of DSP consumables and request resupply as needed.
• Become familiar with all required batch records, execute according to the batch records and ensure clear communication of the targeted design parameters.
• Execute day‑to‑day Pilot Plant activities, 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.
• Maintain the upkeep of the Pilot Plant equipment through the process of initiating work notifications/work orders and maintenance scheduling; Be capable of correcting minor maintenance issues.
• Adhere to company environmental, safety, and health policies and procedure.
• Ensure Pilot Plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Physical demand requirements are more than sedentary work due to inspection of equipment. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders. Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Must be able to wear the required protective equipment, including respirators when 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 downstream 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.
• Some familiarity 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

Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator, Augusta, Georgia, United States, Full-Time