Bioprocess Engineer-Fermentation

About Us:
Microbial Discovery Group (MDG) is an R&D-driven product development and Bacillus fermentation company. We apply Real Science to a Trusted Process, yielding Proven Success for our partners. At MDG, we recognize the need for sustainable solutions to the world’s largest problems, and we work to solve them as part of our mission to Feed, Clean, Save the World. As a member of our team, your ideas and innovations are integral to who we are. Come grow with us!

Position Summary:
The Bioprocess Engineer must possess a strong foundation in optimizing and developing scale-up fermentation processes and will be responsible for scale-up technology transfer from lab/pilot scale to manufacturing. The position will collaborate with multiple departments to investigate and help resolve problems in fermentation, freeze drying, spray drying and other downstream manufacturing processes and equipment.  

Responsibilities:

• Scale up fermentation, freeze drying and spray drying processes from lab/pilot scale to manufacturing.
• Work closely with multiple departments to identify and implement process innovations that will increase production yields, equipment reliability and overall process performance.
• Develop and execute scalable bioreactor operating and control strategies. Working knowledge of batch, fed batch and continuous fermentation is desired.
• Operate and conduct routine maintenance of fermentation laboratory equipment.
• Utilize pilot process data for developing operational narratives.
• Troubleshoot and provide active support to resolve issues in manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with Quality Control and Research & Development teams to create SOPs for existing and new processes.
• Conduct detailed analysis, compile, and report experimental results to the manufacturing team.
• Assist with commissioning, planning and execution of facility expansion activities. This includes participating in equipment installations, validation, and start-up.
• Keep up to date on current literature and trends in the state of the art of fermentation, freeze drying, spray drying and downstream processing.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Qualifications:
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Depth of experience working and succeeding in a document change controlled, regulated, cGMP production environment.
• Ability to utilize P&IDs and understand or rapidly learn basic function and mission critical parameters of most processing equipment and automation.
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude and engineering skill.
• Very meticulous and methodical in problem solving, validation and root cause analysis.
• Detail-oriented with proven organization and coordination skills and continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Must be able to work as a part of inter and intra-departmental teams and change review board.
• Position is onsite and involves travel to MDG’s fermentation and production facilities.

Education, Training, Experience

• B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology and > 5 years of relevant experience.
• Chemical process, biotech, fermentation, or pharmaceutical engineering environments.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactors, centrifuges, freeze dryers and spray dryers.
• Working knowledge of batch, fed batch and continuous fermentation.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

• Majority of work is conducted in a laboratory environment and may include occasional exposure to cold temperatures.
• Work includes lifting (up to 30 lbs.) and frequent use of hands for handling objects, tools, and controls.
• May be exposed to airborne particles and chemicals used in fermentation production facilities.

Safety Requirements:

• Mandated use of company-issued Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Adherence to all company safety procedures and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.