Title: Fermentation Engineer I/II

Department: Fermentation

Position Summary

Genomatica is harnessing biology to remake everyday products and materials built by and for the planet. The company is developing and scaling sustainable materials derived from plant- or waste-based feedstocks instead of fossil fuels to help brands deliver on their climate goals and our planet’s needs. Genomatica has already commercialized sustainable materials used in plastics, spandex and cosmetics, and is working on plant-based nylon, household cleaners and more.

We seek a highly motivated Fermentation Engineer to develop and deploy novel bio-based chemical processes. This position will experimentally develop and deploy scalable fermentation-based production processes. Strong communication skills are a must as this position will interact internally with multiple functional groups and externally with business partners and service providers.

This position is located in San Diego, CA.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Facilitates the design and implementation of bio-based chemical processes from the laboratory through pilot plant to commercial scale-up and technology transfer.

• Guide experimental projects to achieve company goals; analyze and present fermentation data; and determine next steps.
• Design and execute fermentation experiments at 250 mL – 30L scale in Genomatica’s Precision Fermentation Laboratory.
• Interface between multiple functional groups including Fermentation, Analytical, Strain Engineering, Down stream processing, and Systems Bioengineering.
• Lead and/or support technology transfer operations at external piloting, tolling, and manufacturing sites.
• Participate in process evaluations through the analysis and interpretation of lab and demonstration scale data, technical literature, and process simulations. Translate this information into equipment and process specifications and provide recommendations for further R&D and intellectual property opportunities.

Qualifications & Experience

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required in order satisfactorily perform in this role.

Education

PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, or related field, required direct relevant fermentation experience; preferred 2+ years industrial experience.

Experience

• Hands on experience operating fermenters at lab scale.
• Experience with design, development, optimization, scale-up, and technology transfer of industrial fermentation-based production processes.
• Experience developing microbial fermentation processes, preferably with E. coli.
• Advanced process modeling capabilities (Excel, Python, Aspen, etc.).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and knowledge of bioreactor control hardware/software.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and strong computer skills (Microsoft Office, etc.).

Knowledge requirements and competencies

1.) Excellent organizational and prioritization skills with the ability to handle multiple projects at once

2.) Must be flexible and able to work well in a dynamic environment

3.) Able to interact with comfortably, confidently, and professionally with all levels of the organization and external parties

4.) Strong background in microbial physiology preferably for E. coli

5.) Strong chemical engineering fundamentals and application of those to bioprocesses

6.) Desire to learn new skill set

7.) Able to translate complex technical concepts to broader audiences

8.) Excellent written and oral communication skills

9.) Thrives in a collaborative diverse team environment with multiple functional groups

Work Environment/ Physical Demands

The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Working in a lab will bring exposure to typical laboratory hazards.
• Ability to travel to current and prospective partner sites (typically less than 25%, with periods of higher frequency).

Genomatica is committed to providing exciting career opportunities in an environment that values trust, respect, openness, teamwork, creativity, enthusiasm, and diligence. We strive to create a culture that enables and encourages everyone to bring their whole selves to work. We are committed to be a company where everyone feels they have equal opportunity to reach their potential. Everyone is accepted and appreciated for who they are and what they bring to Genomatica.

We promote the continued development of an inclusive environment that values diversity through Geno4All, our employee led Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee. We are looking for innovative, highly motivated, and collaborative people who enjoy the challenges and rewards of a company devoted to commercializing cutting-edge sustainable technology.

Check us out on our LinkedIn Life page. Genomatica is an equal opportunity employer.

Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.