Lead Fermentation Operator

About the role

Our West Allis manufacturing team plays a critical role in delivering reliable, world-class biological solutions that impact millions of people globally. Working in a fast-paced, regulated production environment, this team operates with a strong safety-first and quality-always mindset. Collaboration, trust, and continuous improvement are at the heart of how we work—supporting each other across shifts to keep production running safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

As Lead Fermentation Operator (Nights), you hold a key operational and people-leadership role within our 24/7 manufacturing operation. This is a hands-on, operational role with added responsibility for coordination, coaching, and performance support across the shift. Your leadership helps ensure safe operations, high-quality output, and strong team performance.

Responsibilities

• Lead by example with a safety-first, quality-always mindset and set clear expectations for the team.
• Identify, document, and help resolve process non-conformances, equipment failures, and inventory discrepancies using root-cause thinking and lean principles.
• Schedule and assign daily tasks, set priorities, and evaluate results in collaboration with supervisors and planning partners.
• Maintain accurate production, inventory, and process records using electronic MRP systems and document management tools.
• Support audits, training activities, new product trials, and continuous improvement initiatives across fermentation and downstream processes.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Strong safety mindset and comfort working in a regulated manufacturing environment with strict sanitation and documentation requirements.
• Technical aptitude, including ability to read detailed production journals, follow procedures, and perform basic metric math (weights and volumes).
• Basic computer skills for navigating internal systems; experience with SAP or similar systems is beneficial.
• Ability to communicate clearly, provide feedback, and support team performance on a night shift.

Qualifications

• Experience in regulated industries such as food, biotech, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing.
• Forklift or pallet walker experience (training provided on-site if needed).
• Interest in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or helping train and develop others.
• Curiosity and motivation to deeply understand processes, not just execute tasks.

Benefits

At Novonesis, you'll join a collaborative manufacturing culture where teamwork, ownership, and learning matter. We offer structured training, cross-functional support, and opportunities to grow your technical and leadership skills. You'll work alongside experienced operators and supervisors who are committed to developing talent and continuously improving how we operate.

• 401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution
• Minimum of 3 weeks of vacation plus 12 holidays and 2 weeks of Wellness Time
• Health, Dental, Vision & Life insurance
• Healthcare savings account option
• Employee assistance program
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• All benefits begin on your first day