Senior Bio-Process Engineer

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health and wellness benefits

Professional development and advanced/

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Senior Bio-Process Engineer to join a leading biotech client in Pietermaritzburg. You will design, optimize, and scale bioprocesses for therapeutic molecules, covering upstream cell culture and downstream purification, with a focus on robust, reproducible outcomes.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Biochemical/Chemical Engineering or related field, at least five years in bioprocess development, GMP knowledge, and strong data analysis skills (JMP, R).

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in bioprocess development.
• Knowledge of mammalian cell culture, microbial fermentation, chromatography and tangential flow filtration.
• Experience with GMP and regulatory affairs is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize bioprocessing protocols for upstream and downstream operations.
• Scale-up processes from lab to pilot and commercial manufacturing scales.
• Conduct process characterization and validation studies to meet regulatory requirements.
• Troubleshoot technical issues in process development and manufacturing.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, quality control, and regulatory affairs.
• Prepare technical reports, protocols, and regulatory submission documents.
• Stay updated on advancements in bioprocessing and regulatory guidelines.

Skills

Bioprocess development

GMP compliance

Data analysis

Problem solving

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Biochemical/ Chemical Engineering

Tools

JMP

R

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading innovator in the biotechnology sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Bio-Process Engineer to join their dynamic research and development team. This pivotal role will be based in the vibrant city of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . The successful candidate will play a crucial part in the design, optimization, and scaling of biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes. We are looking for a forward-thinking individual with a passion for scientific advancement and a proven track record in process development and validation. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects and to work within a collaborative and stimulating environment that fosters professional growth and encourages cutting-edge research.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize bioprocessing protocols for novel therapeutic molecules, including upstream (cell culture) and downstream (purification) operations.
• Scale-up processes from laboratory bench to pilot and commercial manufacturing scales, ensuring robust and reproducible outcomes.
• Conduct rigorous process characterization and validation studies to meet regulatory requirements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues encountered during process development and manufacturing.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, quality control, and regulatory affairs.
• Author comprehensive technical reports, protocols, and regulatory submission documents.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in bioprocessing technology and regulatory guidelines.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in bioprocess development within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• In-depth knowledge of mammalian cell culture, microbial fermentation, chromatography, and tangential flow filtration.
• Experience with process modeling and simulation software is a plus.
• Strong understanding of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) principles and regulatory affairs (e.g., FDA, EMA).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software (e.g., JMP, R).
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to support project needs.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and advanced training.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Contribution to impactful scientific advancements in a growing industry.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment located in scenic Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .