Fermenter Operator

Job Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor laboratory, pilot-scale and production fermenters 20 L to 1.5 kl.
• Perform fermenter cleaning, SIP/CIP, sterilization and preparation before batches.
• Carry out media preparation, sterilization and inoculation activities.
• Monitor and record temperature, pH, DO, agitation/RPM, air flow, pressure, foam and feed addition.
• Maintain accurate batch records, logbooks and process data.
• Follow approved SOPs, batch manufacturing records and safety procedures.
• Perform fermentation sampling and coordinate with QC/R&D teams for analysis.
• Handle culture transfer and aseptic operations as per SOP.
• Identify abnormal process conditions and immediately inform the supervisor.
• Support fermentation process optimization and scale-up activities.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the fermentation area and equipment.
• Coordinate with Maintenance, QC, QA and R&D teams for smooth batch operations.
• Ensure proper handling of raw materials, chemicals and microbial cultures.
• Follow GMP, GLP, EHS and company quality requirements.

Key Skills

• Basic knowledge of microbial fermentation.
• Knowledge of fermenter operation and process parameters.
• Good understanding of aseptic techniques.
• Basic knowledge of CIP/SIP and sterilization.
• Ability to understand P&ID, equipment manuals and SOPs.
• Good documentation and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work in shifts when required.
• Good observation and troubleshooting skills.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in fermentation of antibiotics, enzymes, microbial cultures or other biotech products will be preferred.

Key Performance Indicators (KPI)

• Safe and efficient fermenter operation.
• Batch completion as per production plan.
• Accurate process monitoring and documentation.
• Minimum process deviations and contamination.
• Equipment cleanliness and operational readiness.
• Compliance with SOP, GMP and safety requirements.