Bioprocess Engineer - Fermentation Technology

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Bioprocess Engineer to advance fermentation technology in Vereeniging. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and scaling bioprocesses for biopharmaceuticals, biofuels, or specialty chemicals.

A strong background in biochemical engineering and extensive microbial fermentation experience, plus a drive for sustainable, cost-effective biomanufacturing, are essential.

Qualifications

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in bioprocess development with microbial fermentation.
• Hands-on experience with various bioreactor types and fermentation equipment.
• Strong understanding of microbial physiology, metabolic engineering, and downstream processing.

Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and scale-up fermentation processes for microbial or cell culture systems.
• Monitor and control fermentation parameters to maximize yield and product quality.
• Develop and implement downstream processing strategies for product recovery and purification.
• Perform process validation and ensure compliance with GMP.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with R&D and manufacturing to transfer processes from lab to pilot and commercial scales.

Skills

Fermentation optimization

Bioreactor operation

Process modeling

Data analysis

Project management

Education

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative Bioprocess Engineer to advance their fermentation technology capabilities in Vereeniging . This role is critical for optimizing and scaling up bioprocesses for the production of biopharmaceuticals, biofuels, or specialty chemicals. You will design, implement, and manage fermentation processes, ensuring efficiency, yield, and product quality. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in biochemical engineering, extensive experience with microbial fermentation, and a passion for developing sustainable and cost-effective biomanufacturing solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and scale-up fermentation processes for microbial or cell culture systems.
• Monitor and control fermentation parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrient feeding) to maximize yield and product quality.
• Develop and implement downstream processing strategies for product recovery and purification.
• Perform process validation and ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations (e.g., GMP).
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions to maintain process performance.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists and manufacturing teams to transfer processes from lab to pilot and commercial scales.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in bioprocess development, with a focus on microbial fermentation.
• Hands-on experience with various bioreactor types and fermentation equipment.
• Strong understanding of microbial physiology, metabolic engineering, and downstream processing.
• Knowledge of process modeling, simulation, and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and project management skills for operations in Vereeniging .

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package including salary and bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contribution.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in bioprocessing.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment at the forefront of biomanufacturing.