Fermentation Operations Lead - ZymoChem

About ZymoChem

ZymoChem is breakthrough science for a fossil-free future.  We accelerate the transition to a real-zero economy by developing bio-based materials for everyday products.  Our platform is powered by proprietary carbon conserving (C2) microbes that convert renewable feedstocks into high-value materials while radically minimizing CO2 loss during the production phase.  

ZymoChem recently closed a $21 million Series A round of fundraising to support the launch of our first high-performance material and to advance our first partnered product to commercial scale.  In addition to this funding from premier domestic & international venture capital firms, we are also supported by existing revenues from commercial partnerships with world-leading companies and funding from multiple government awards, including a 2023 $4MM grant from the Department of Energy. 

With a plan to double our team in 2024-25, we seek candidates who are motivated by science & innovation and have a passion to push the boundaries of materials performance.  We are collaborative, multidisciplinary, and relentlessly committed to creating a chemicals, materials, and products industry in tune with the 21st century. 

Our Mission: To catalyze a real-zero economy with drop-in, bio-based solutions.

Our Vision: To live in a world in which the goods we depend on every day are bio-manufactured from 100% renewable materials and designed for a sustainable economy - without compromise.

Our Values: Lead with Compassion, Aspire Collectively, Evolve Continuously, Innovate with Impact, Scale Sustainably

Position Summary

The Fermentation Operations Lead oversees all aspects of fermentation operations, leading a team to ensure efficient lab activities and responsible for leading lab operations and a team, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and safety. Drives continuous improvement initiatives and collaborates cross-functionally to achieve project objectives. Requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and strategic vision to uphold quality standards and drive innovation in fermentation operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the build-out and maintenance of wet lab research areas to support bench-scale fermentation operations.
• Plan logistics, design process maps and room layouts, and source consumables and equipment inventory to optimize operational efficiency.
• Responsible for lab preparation for fermentation processes.
• Manage and oversee all aspects of fermentation operations,which includes sterilizing and cleaning of bioreactors, preparing sterile bottle assemblies, maintaining bioreactors, monitoring process parameters, sample handling

 and troubleshooting any issues that arise during fermentation runs.

• Coordinate with external vendors, procurement teams, and group leads to manage timelines, budgeting, and integration of in-house CapEx projects, including bioreactor systems and analytical instruments.
• Author and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) documentation to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
• Configure Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) data architecture and streamline scientific workflows to improve data capture and accessibility.
• Lead process improvement efforts to enhance operational success rates and efficiency in fermentation operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including downstream process teams and external R&D partners, to execute experiments and achieve project objectives.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure alignment of project goals and priorities.
• Present technical reports and findings at departmental meetings and provide iterative feedback to researchers and scientists.

Qualifications 

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in fermentation operations, with demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Experience in managing laboratory facilities, including equipment procurement, maintenance, and optimization.
• Strong understanding of aseptic techniques and compliance standards.
• Proficiency in laboratory software and data management tools, such as Benchling, Fermworks, and Spotfire.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Experience in implementing lean methodologies and process improvement initiatives, such as 5s and Six Sigma, is preferred.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to act proactively, independently, and with a high degree of adaptability
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills among many stakeholders and levels in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong computer skills including MS Office, Google Suite, and familiarity with Zoom, Visio, and Slack preferred
• Excellent time management skills, effective with multitasking, and an adept ability to improvise work plans while maintaining efficiency
• Ability to follow safety protocols and procedures
• Must be able to move up to 25 pounds and move around the lab facility between multiple locations.

Culture and Benefits

ZymoChem offers full-time employees a competitive base salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company culture that’s collaborative, multidisciplinary, and committed to a big vision for positively impacting the world. We seek candidates who are motivated by our mission and are equally passionate toward pushing the boundaries to build a sustainable future. Located in the vibrant East Bay area of San Francisco, our headquarters are housed at Gate 510, a state-of-the-facility with many in-house and nearby amenities.

Full-time opportunities at ZymoChem come with: 

• Competitive pay range is $100,000 to $130,000 per year, depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes company stock options, 401(k) retirement plan (includes a corporate match), medical, dental, and vision healthcare coverage, and life and long-term disability insurance.
• Additional benefits include FSA, commuter, and supplemental life insurance.
• Flexible time off policy with 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO) per year and 10 paid company holidays per year.
• Relocation assistance may be agreed upon as well.

If this opportunity sounds exciting and aligns with your career aspirations, we want to hear from you!  Please send your resume/CV and a cover letter through our website job posting.

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. ZymoChem may agree to sponsor an individual for an employment visa immediately or in the future if there is a shortage of individuals with particular skills for this job.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

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