Hybrid Upstream Bioprocess Engineer (Biologics)

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24, a leading pharmaceutical recruiter, seeks a Bioprocess Engineer for upstream development in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA. The hybrid role blends on-site cell culture work with remote responsibilities, supporting process improvement and tech transfer.

The engineer will design experiments, optimize mammalian culture, scale from bench to pilot, and ensure GMP compliance while collaborating with QA, analytics, and downstream teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology or related field.
• Minimum 3 years upstream bioprocess development experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Hands-on mammalian cell culture and bioreactor operation.
• Knowledge of scale-up principles and GMP regulations for biologics.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a hybrid team; remote task management.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments for upstream process development including cell line characterization and media optimization.
• Optimize bioreactor operating parameters to maximize cell growth and product titer.
• Perform process scale-up from bench to pilot-scale bioreactors.
• Develop and implement robust process control strategies.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed protocols, reports, and presentations.
• Collaborate with analytical development, downstream processing, and quality assurance teams.
• Maintain accurate records and upkeep of lab equipment.
• Ensure activities comply with GMP guidelines and safety protocols.
• Assist in regulatory documentation preparation.

Skills

Cell biology

Bioreactor operation

Process engineering

Analytical thinking

Written & verbal communication

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biochemical Engineering

Tools

Statistical analysis software

Job description

Placements24, a leading pharmaceutical recruiter, seeks a Bioprocess Engineer for upstream development in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA. The hybrid role blends on-site cell culture work with remote responsibilities, supporting process improvement and tech transfer.

The engineer will design experiments, optimize mammalian culture, scale from bench to pilot, and ensure GMP compliance while collaborating with QA, analytics, and downstream teams.