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About the job
Pilot Plant Engineer – Overview
The Pilot Plant Engineer is a key member of the Technology group, responsible for operating, optimizing, and scaling pilot-scale fermentation and downstream processing systems. This role blends hands-on troubleshooting with mechanical and process engineering expertise and serves as a critical bridge between process development and manufacturing. The Pilot Plant Engineer supports experimentation, drives equipment and process implementation, improves system reliability, and enables safe, efficient production of mycoprotein ingredient.
Key Responsibilities
Operate and support pilot-scale fermentation and downstream processing systems.
Collaborate closely with research, process development, and pilot plant teams to evaluate, introduce, and implement new process technologies and equipment.
Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize mechanical and process performance to improve yield, quality, reliability, and throughput across upstream and downstream operations.
Lead preventive and corrective maintenance programs to ensure equipment reliability and operational readiness.
Contribute to capital project planning, including equipment specifications, procurement, installation, and commissioning, ensuring alignment with short- and long-term departmental goals.
Interface with contractors, vendors, and service providers to support installations, maintenance activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Design and execute experimental trials, collect and analyze process data, and prepare technical reports summarizing results, insights, and recommendations.
Develop, maintain, and improve process documentation, including SOPs, batch records, equipment logs, and engineering drawings.
Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements while promoting a strong safety culture.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, or a related field.
2–4 years of relevant industry experience.
Experience with fermentation systems, aseptic processing, and sanitary design, including piping, pumps, valves, and pressure systems.
Working knowledge of process control systems and automation.
Familiarity with fermentation equipment from benchtop through pilot scale, including equipment specification, sizing, and utility requirements.
Hands-on experience operating pilot-scale or industrial biomanufacturing equipment is preferred.
Experience with programming (e.g., SCADA, Python), statistics, design of experiments (DOE), and data analysis is a plus.
Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and critical-thinking skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple priorities.
Additional Requirements
Flexibility to work outside of regular business hours and weekends as process demands require.
Ability to travel as needed.
You can apply directly through the LinkedIn job posting, or submit your resume to hello@bettermeat.co