Bio-manufacturing Operator I (5:00AM-2:00PM)

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with loading, setting up, and harvesting bioreactor tanks according to SOPs and batch records.
• Fill slurry product into trays and perform standard and/or cryo-freezing while ensuring proper labeling and traceability.
• Load frozen slurry product into storage freezers and transfer materials to downstream processing areas.
• Assist with loading and unloading freeze dryers and spray dryers under direction of senior operators or supervision.
• Weigh out raw materials and ingredients accurately in accordance with production formulas and instructions.
• Clean product trays, racks, addition cans, and equipment following approved sanitation procedures and chemical handling guidelines.
• Refill and set up addition cans and related equipment in a hygienic and safe manner.
• Assist with receiving and loading of goods, including raw materials, packaging, and supplies.
• Prepare finished product and materials for shipping, including labeling, palletizing, and staging.
• Operate basic plant equipment (e.g., scales, tray washer, pallet jack, forklift if certified) in a safe and efficient manner.
• Maintain accurate, legible, and timely production records, logs, and cleaning documentation.
• Follow all SOPs, work instructions, cGMP, HACCP, FSMA, OSHA, and site-specific safety procedures.
• Identify and promptly communicate safety, quality, equipment, or process issues to supervision.
• Contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and audit-ready work environment.

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in cross-training to build proficiency across fermentation and downstream areas.
• Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives related to safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Assist in training new or less experienced operators as knowledge and proficiency increase.
• Perform general area housekeeping, including waste handling and inventory organization.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production schedules and business needs.

Work Environment

• Majority of work performed in a fermentation production facility with wet, humid, dusty, and noisy conditions.
• Exposure to processing equipment, moving mechanical parts, and sanitation chemicals.
• May be exposed to airborne particles and chemicals used in fermentation and cleaning processes.
• Work is primarily on-site; shift, weekend, and overtime work may be required based on production needs.

Minimum Qualifications

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to follow written SOPs, work instructions, and verbal directions with attention to detail.
• Basic math skills and ability to use a computer for data entry and production records.
• Ability to perform physically active work, including standing and walking for most of the shift and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work safely with chemicals and cleaning agents while using required PPE.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly with coworkers and supervisors.

Preferred Qualifications

• An associate’s degree or higher in biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry, or a related technical field.
• One or more years of experience in fermentation, food production, biotech, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing.
• Familiarity with cGMP, HACCP, FSMA, and basic quality systems.
• Experience operating fermentation, drying, or related processing equipment.
• Experience with basic material handling equipment, including forklifts and pallet jacks.

Technical Skills

• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, particularly fermentation and/or downstream processing.
• Ability to operate scales, tray washers, freezers, and basic production equipment after training.
• Ability to complete production documentation accurately and in compliance with quality requirements.

Non-Technical Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and product quality.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to adapt to changing production priorities.
• Team-oriented with good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Willingness to learn new equipment, procedures, and technologies.

Licenses/Certifications

• Forklift certification preferred or ability to obtain certification upon hire.
• Other site-specific safety or equipment certifications as required.

Physical & Safety Requirements

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and occasional kneeling or crouching.
• Mandatory use of company-issued uniform and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Adherence to all company safety procedures, including lockout/tagout and chemical handling guidelines.