Associate Scientist - Microbial Fermentation and Bioprocessing

Core Responsibilities

• Operate microbial fermenters at the 0.25-liter, 10-liter, and 100-liter scales for research trials and pilot biomanufacturing runs.
• Execute downstream processing unit operations, including cell lysis, biomass recovery, separation, and biomolecular purification.
• Operate and maintain pilot-scale equipment such as steam-in-place fermenters, continuous flow centrifuges, high-pressure homogenizers, tangential flow filtration units, depth filtration stacks, and console lyophilizers.
• Support lab operations through tasks like solution preparation, glassware washing, and sterilization.
• Ensure equipment is ready for use by performing startup, commissioning, routine cleaning, maintenance, and minor facility repairs.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers on process optimization and bioproduct characterization using analytical tools such as mass spectrometry, HPLC/FPLC, gel electrophoresis, and electron microscopy.
• Draft, revise, and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) and product-specific protocols. Maintain strict adherence to protocols.
• Support facility business functions, including consumable supply ordering, shipping, and inventory tracking.
• Present findings and work progress at internal and external scientific meetings and conferences.
• Document processes using standard batch records.

Required Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., biomanufacturing, microbiology, chemical engineering, or bioengineering).
• 1+ years of experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting food or bioprocessing equipment.
• Hands-on experience with microbial fermentation and protein purification at the laboratory scale.
• Comfort and capability working with industrial equipment in an industrial setting.
• Strong understanding of research methodology, principles, and data interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Proficiency with standard word processing and spreadsheet software.

Desired Qualifications

• 2+ years of pilot-scale or production facility experience in food or biomanufacturing.
• Direct experience with industrial fermentation, bioproduction, and spray-drying.
• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE), process optimization, and bioproduct characterization tools.

Physical & Environmental Demands

• Ability to comfortably lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, climb, and interact with equipment at various heights.
• Ability to work safely in hot, cold, or wet environments, and in close proximity to heated equipment.
• Capacity to safely handle, store, and dispose of industrial chemicals and solvents in volumes up to 10 liters.
• Ability to consistently wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for extended durations during processing runs.

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Occasional nights, weekends, or extended hours as operational needs require (very rarely).

Clearance Level

No Clearance

Salary Range

$69,500 - $106,000

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401K with company matching
• A 9/80 work schedule
• A paid holiday shutdown

About AV

AeroVironment is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.