Fermentation Process Engineer

About the role

The Fermentation Process Engineer is responsible for the design, operation, and optimization of fermentation-based processes. This role works cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and RD&A teams to deliver safe, efficient, and reliable production while supporting continuous improvement and innovation initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, operate, and optimize batch fermentation processes to ensure consistent performance and product quality
• Design and support equipment and systems with a focus on aseptic and sterile processing
• Troubleshoot and support downstream operations, including centrifugation, pasteurization, and sterilization
• Maintain process performance, analyze data, and implement process improvements
• Prepare and maintain process documentation, including SOPs, protocols, and technical reports
• Collaborate with maintenance and automation teams to ensure equipment reliability and uptime
• Support scale-up, technology transfer, and process validation activities
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards

Qualifications and skills

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, Fermentation Science, or a related field
• 3–5 years of experience in industrial fermentation or bioprocess operations
• Hands-on experience with batch fermentation systems
• Strong understanding of aseptic techniques and sterile system design
• Experience with centrifugation and separation processes
• Familiarity with pasteurization and thermal sterilization
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with yeast fermentation processes
• Exposure to automation systems (e.g., PLC programming or similar platforms)
• Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar tools for equipment layout and process design
• Experience with microfiltration and nanofiltration systems
• Exposure to process scale-up and commercial production environments
• Familiarity with cGMP or food-grade manufacturing environments

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $63,000 - $116,900 in Annual Salary. Kerry typically does not hire an individual at the top or near the top of the range, as we are a pay-for-performance company, and this range is set to continue to reward performance annually while in role. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.

Kerry offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, a 401(k) plan with employee and company contribution opportunities, Employee Share Plan, Life, disability, and accident insurance, and tuition reimbursement.