Bioprocess Engineer - Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Superior medical aid

Retirement savings plans

Life insurance

Paid time off

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks a Bioprocess Engineer to lead development, optimization and scale-up of biopharmaceutical processes for therapeutic proteins. You will design upstream and downstream operations, drive process validation, and ensure regulatory compliance.

The role involves troubleshooting, CAPA, technology transfer to manufacturing sites, and collaboration with R&D, QA, and manufacturing teams to enable data-driven improvements in a state-of-the-art facility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology or related field.
• PhD is a plus for senior candidates.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize upstream (cell culture, microbial) and downstream (purification) bioprocesses.
• Lead scale-up from lab to pilot and commercial manufacturing.
• Develop and execute process validation protocols and regulatory reports (GMP, FDA, EMA).
• Troubleshoot deviations and implement CAPA.
• Collaborate with R&D, QA, Manufacturing, and Analytical Development.
• Identify new technologies and equipment to improve yield and quality.
• Monitor process performance and drive data-driven improvements.
• Support technology transfer to manufacturing sites.

Skills

Bioprocess design

GMP compliance

Scale-up

Tech transfer

Process optimization

Data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Project management

Cell culture

Education

Bachelor's in Biochemical Engineering

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Bachelor's in Biotechnology

Master's in Biochemical Engineering

Tools

Process modeling software

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering biopharmaceutical company, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Bioprocess Engineer to join their state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This critical role will focus on the development, optimization, and scale‑up of biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes, ensuring the production of high‑quality therapeutic products. The Bioprocess Engineer will be instrumental in designing and implementing robust upstream and downstream processes, troubleshooting operational challenges, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented engineer passionate about biomanufacturing to contribute to cutting‑edge advancements in a growing field. Be a part of our dedicated team in Upington , shaping the future of biopharmaceuticals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize upstream (cell culture, microbial fermentation) and downstream (purification) bioprocesses for therapeutic proteins and other biological products.
• Lead scale‑up activities from laboratory bench to pilot and commercial manufacturing scales.
• Develop and execute process validation protocols and generate reports in compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., GMP, FDA, EMA).
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Author and review technical documents, including process descriptions, batch records, and technology transfer packages.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing Operations, and Analytical Development teams.
• Identify and evaluate new technologies and equipment to enhance process efficiency, yield, and quality.
• Monitor process performance and implement data‑driven improvements.
• Ensure all activities are conducted in adherence to safety regulations and GMP guidelines.
• Contribute to the technical transfer of processes to manufacturing sites.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.
• A Ph.D. is a plus.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of hands‑on experience in biopharmaceutical process development and manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in upstream (e.g., bioreactors, cell culture) and downstream (e.g., chromatography, filtration) processing.
• Strong understanding of GMP principles and regulatory requirements for biologics manufacturing.
• Experience with process validation, scale‑up, and technology transfer.
• Proficiency in relevant software (e.g., process modeling software, statistical analysis tools).
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a cross‑functional team environment.
• Detail‑oriented with a commitment to quality and safety.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance‑based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including superior medical aid, retirement savings plans, and life insurance. Opportunities for continuous professional growth through specialized training, workshops, and conference attendance are readily available. The role is based at our advanced facility in Upington, Northern Cape , providing a stimulating and collaborative work environment. We also offer generous paid time off and foster a culture of innovation and employee development.