Production Technologist - Solid-State Fermentation - Fungal Factory

SUMMARY:
A well-established company specialising in the manufacturing and supplying of various world-class agricultural products to the farming and related industries requires the above to assist the Factory Manager with overseeing the daily operations for the production of biocontrol organisms for agriculture, specifically focusing on solid-state fermentation.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum requirements for the role:

• A diploma or degree in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field is essential for this role.
• Previous experience having worked within a production or manufacturing, preferably in fungal, biotech, or pharmaceutical industries is preferred but not essential.
• Previous experience having worked in an engineering or related environment is also preferred.
• Must be hands on and be able to work independently.

• Overseeing the daily operations for the production of biocontrol organisms for agriculture, specifically focusing on solid-state fermentation.
• Ensuring the highest quality production standards, efficient factory operations, adherence to microbiological and biocontrol standards, staff management, and continuous improvement in production processes.
• Ordering, monitoring, and maintaining stock of required raw materials for production.
• Ensuring raw materials meet quality standards and are regularly tested by the Microbiologist.
• Ensuring raw materials are mixed per the latest Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
• Providing weekly reports and updates to the Production Manager.
• Liaising with Microbiologists to optimise production and maintain product quality.
• Addressing operational challenges to optimise factory performance.
• Ensuring factory staff and visitors adhere to SOPs at all times.
• Designing and implementing efficient factory layouts, considering time-motion studies, gowning procedures, and workflow improvements.
• Improving production processes and suggesting new ideas, including building materials and workflow enhancements.
• Ensuring regular maintenance checks and optimal functionality of plant and equipment.
• Maintaining equipment calibration and conducting repairs when necessary.
• Assisting in obtaining and maintaining iso accreditation by working to the highest operational standards.