Sr. Fermentation Engineer- Valent BioSciences, LLC

Sumitomo Chemical Group Companies of America • Osage, IA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Sr. Fermentation Engineer at Valent BioSciences you will assist production in meeting all safety, quality, delivery and cost goals set by management. You will have knowledge of fermentation science and biochemical engineering principles, theory and practice with special focus on microbial fermentation operations in an industrial setting or a strong interest in acquiring such skills. As Sr. Fermentation Engineer, you will also act as mentor and leader to Production Specialists and Interns.

Requirements

• BS in chemical engineering, bioengineering, biotechnology, biochemical engineering, biology, or other related fields is required, M.S. or Ph.D. preferred
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience with industrial scale microbial fermentation processes is required
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must be able to work independently and as a part of an interdisciplinary, diverse team

Nice To Haves

• Good working knowledge of chemical and biochemical process unit operations is a plus
• Excellent computer skills are desired
• Working knowledge and understanding of process control and automation is a plus
• Industrial scale hands-on plant experience with process optimization and Six Sigma experience is a plus
• Must have flexibility to work some limited off-shift and weekend hours in order to support all production shifts when needed

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with company safety and environmental policies and training programs.
• Monitor and analyze fermentation batch yield, quality, and production data to identify improvement opportunities.
• Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost performance.
• Develop and maintain production documentation including batch records, work instructions, and SOPs.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Collaborate with production teams to optimize fermentation, recovery, and formulation processes.
• Support cost management activities including bill of materials and cost standard reviews.
• Train and advise plant operators, production specialists, and supervisors on processes and best practices.
• Participate in capital projects, technology implementation, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Contribute to new product development, process validation, and experimentation to improve process performance and product yield.
• Develop and apply statistical models and data analysis to optimize manufacturing processes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans
• 5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus
• Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions
• Financial assistance programs to support your goals
• Life and disability insurance for added security
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level