Chemical Engineer - Industrial Fermentation Specialist

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Performance bonuses

Training opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for an accomplished Chemical Engineer with specialized experience in industrial fermentation to join our team in Benoni, Gauteng. The role focuses on optimizing and scaling bioprocesses to produce high-value bio-based products.

You will design bioreactors, monitor fermentation parameters, and ensure efficiency and yield. A strong background in biochemical engineering, large-scale fermentation, and a passion for sustainable biotechnology are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering with a focus on biochemical engineering or biotechnology.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial fermentation process development and scale-up.
• Strong understanding of microbial physiology and metabolic pathways.
• Experience with bioreactor design and operation.

Responsibilities

• Design, operate, and optimize industrial fermentation processes.
• Develop and scale-up bioprocesses from lab to pilot and commercial scale.
• Monitor and control critical fermentation parameters (temperature, pH, DO).
• Perform mass and energy balances for bioprocesses.
• Troubleshoot fermentation issues and implement effective solutions.
• Collaborate with microbiologists, biochemists, and downstream processing engineers.
• Ensure GMP compliance and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze fermentation data and prepare technical reports.
• Contribute to development of new bio-based products and processes.

Skills

Industrial fermentation

Bioprocess scaling

Bioreactor design

GMP compliance

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Chemical Engineering (biochemical focus)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in biochemical manufacturing and bio-based products, is seeking an accomplished Chemical Engineer with specialized experience in industrial fermentation to join their innovative team in Benoni, Gauteng . This role is key to optimizing and scaling up bioprocesses for the production of a range of high-value products. You will be involved in designing bioreactors, controlling fermentation parameters, and ensuring the efficiency and yield of biological transformations. The ideal candidate will have a strong grasp of biochemical engineering principles, hands‑on experience with large-scale fermentation, and a passion for sustainable biotechnology. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growing bio‑economy and advance your career in a dynamic industrial setting in Benoni .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, operate, and optimize industrial fermentation processes.
• Develop and scale‑up bioprocesses from laboratory to pilot and commercial scale.
• Monitor and control critical fermentation parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, etc.).
• Perform mass and energy balances for bioprocesses.
• Troubleshoot fermentation issues and implement effective solutions.
• Collaborate with microbiologists, biochemists, and downstream processing engineers.
• Ensure compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze fermentation data and prepare technical reports.
• Contribute to the development of new bio‑based products and processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering with a focus on biochemical engineering or biotechnology.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial fermentation process development and scale‑up.
• Thorough understanding of microbial physiology and metabolic pathways.
• Experience with bioreactor design and operation.
• Knowledge of downstream processing techniques is advantageous.
• Proficiency in bioprocess modeling and simulation software is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for effective team collaboration.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with benefits including medical aid, retirement planning, and performance bonuses.
• Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development in the field of biotechnology are provided.
• This role incorporates a hybrid work model, allowing for a balanced approach to work and personal life within the Benoni, Gauteng area.