Senior Microbiologist - Industrial Fermentation

Placements24; Waukee (IA); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Performance bonus

Hybrid work model

Paarl facility

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Microbiologist to advance industrial fermentation capabilities at our Paarl facility. You will design and execute experiments, evaluate microbial growth and metabolism, and troubleshoot fermentation challenges in a collaborative R&D setting.

The role requires a strong background in microbial physiology and fermentation science, with hands-on experience on lab and pilot-scale equipment.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Microbial Physiology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in industrial microbiology and fermentation science.
• Proven experience in optimizing microbial fermentation processes for production of biochemicals, enzymes, or other industrial products.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory and pilot-scale fermentation equipment.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and analyze experiments for microbial strain development and optimization.
• Optimize fermentation parameters to maximize yield, titer, and productivity.
• Perform microbial identification, characterization, and QC testing.
• Monitor and control fermentation processes using analytical techniques and control systems.
• Troubleshoot contamination, growth inhibition, and process deviations.

Skills

Microbial physiology

Fermentation science

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Microbiology

Tools

HPLC

GC

Spectrophotometry

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Senior Microbiologist to enhance their industrial fermentation capabilities. This role, based in Paarl, Western Cape, is integral to the development and optimization of microbial processes for the production of various industrial products. You will be responsible for designing and executing experiments, analyzing microbial growth and metabolism, and troubleshooting fermentation challenges. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to sustainable manufacturing solutions within a respected R&D organization. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in microbial physiology, fermentation science, and experience with industrial-scale bioprocesses.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and analyze experiments related to microbial strain selection, development, and optimization for industrial fermentation.
• Optimize fermentation parameters (e.g., media composition, temperature, pH, aeration) to maximize product yield, titer, and productivity.
• Perform microbial identification, characterization, and quality control testing.
• Monitor and control fermentation processes using various analytical techniques and process control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to microbial contamination, growth inhibition, and process deviations.
• Collaborate with biochemical engineers and synthetic biologists to integrate microbial processes with downstream operations.
• Maintain detailed laboratory records and prepare comprehensive reports and presentations on experimental findings.
• Stay current with advancements in microbiology, fermentation technology, and industrial biotechnology.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety regulations and operational procedures.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Microbial Physiology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in industrial microbiology and fermentation science.
• Proven experience in optimizing microbial fermentation processes for the production of biochemicals, enzymes, or other industrial products.
• Strong knowledge of microbial physiology, genetics, and metabolism.
• Hands‑on experience with laboratory and pilot‑scale fermentation equipment.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques used in fermentation monitoring (e.g., HPLC, GC, spectrophotometry).
• Excellent problem‑solving, data analysis, and reporting skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Experience with aseptic techniques and microbial contamination control.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements relevant to industrial biotechnology is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, a performance bonus, and opportunities for career advancement.
• This hybrid role provides the advantage of both hands‑on laboratory work and flexible remote engagement.
• You will be based at our modern facility in Paarl, Western Cape, surrounded by a team of dedicated scientists and researchers.
• We invest in our employees' growth through training and support for professional development activities.