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Fermentation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manus Bio

Fermentation Operator

Augusta, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

The Chemical/Fermentation Plant Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes ...

Manus

Fermentation Operator

Augusta, GA

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

The Chemical/Fermentation Plant Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes ...

Manus Bio

Fermentation Operator

Augusta, GA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The Chemical/Fermentation Plant Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes ...

Aerotek

Fermentation Operator 1st Shift

Prior Lake, MN

$25 - $28/hr

Fermentation Operator 1st Shift (6AM-4:30PM Weds-Saturday) Weekly Pay $25-28/hr The Fermentation Operator oversees the end-to-end fermentation process in a small, hands-on manufacturing environment.

New

Elanco

Operator - Fermentation

Terre Haute, IN

$17 - $20.25/hr

Fermentation Operator As a Fermentation Operator, you will be part of the manufacturing team responsible for the batch operation of fermentation vessels and related equipment at Elanco's Terre Haute ...

Novonesis

Fermentation Operator

Salem, VA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Join us as our new Fermentation Operator In this role you'll make an impact by: * Operating and cleaning production equipment like fermenters, centrifuges, and spray dryers * Maintaining clean ...

AB MAURI FOOD INC

Operator - Fermentation

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Make proper fermentation nutrient additions as specified by the mash design. * Ensure that all ... Forklift operator's license. * Ability to operate specific computer software and related hardware ...

AB MAURI FOOD INC

Operator - Fermentation

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Make proper fermentation nutrient additions as specified by the mash design. * Ensure that all ... Forklift operator's license. * Ability to operate specific computer software and related hardware ...

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How much do fermentation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for fermentation operator in the United States is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fermentation Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fermentation Operator, you need a solid understanding of microbiology, chemical processes, and production protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with fermentation equipment, process control systems (like SCADA), and adherence to safety and quality standards (such as GMP) is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help operators monitor processes and respond quickly to anomalies. These competencies ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production in food, beverage, or pharmaceutical fermentation environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Fermentation Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Fermentation Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal environmental conditions (temperature, pH, oxygen levels) and quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions or deviations in the process. Addressing these issues requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with quality and maintenance teams, and adherence to standard operating procedures. Staying proactive with regular equipment checks and being prepared to adapt to changing production demands can help operators maintain smooth and efficient operations.

What is a Fermentation Operator?

A Fermentation Operator is a professional responsible for overseeing and managing the fermentation process in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, or biofuels. They monitor fermentation tanks, measure ingredients, control temperature and pH levels, and ensure that microorganisms grow in optimal conditions to produce the desired product. Their work is crucial for maintaining product quality, safety, and efficiency in large-scale production environments.

What is the highest paying operator job?

The highest paying operator jobs are often found in specialized fields such as chemical or process plant operators, which require technical skills and certifications. In the context of fermentation, senior or lead fermentation operators with extensive experience and advanced knowledge of fermentation processes tend to earn higher salaries. These roles may also involve supervisory responsibilities and working in high-demand industries like biotech or pharmaceuticals.

What is the difference between Fermentation Operator vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectFermentation OperatorQuality Control Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma; often requires certifications in lab testing or quality assurance
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production facility, working with fermentation tanks and equipmentLaboratory or production environment, performing testing and inspections
Industry UsageCommon in brewing, biotech, and food industriesUsed across food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and biotech sectors
Job FocusOperating fermentation equipment, monitoring processesTesting samples, ensuring product quality and compliance

While both roles are essential in fermentation-related industries, the Fermentation Operator primarily manages the fermentation process and equipment operation. In contrast, the Quality Control Technician focuses on testing and ensuring the quality of the final product. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the industry.

More about Fermentation Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Fermentation Operator jobs? The most popular types of Fermentation Operator jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Fermentation Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fermentation Operator jobs are:
Fermentation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fermentation Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,702 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Fermentation Operator

Fermentation Operator

Manus Bio

Augusta, GA • On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Manus works across industries and value chains to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives - better performing and more sustainable versions of complex molecules traditionally sourced from plants, animals, or fossil fuels. Our platform is proven to work across scales, bridging the Valley of Death between lab and manufacturing more efficiently and more reliably to deliver the benefits of synthetic biology today.
The Chemical/Fermentation Plant Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes maintenance, equipment reliability, and operations. Creativity and decision-making skills are required. Must be able to maintain a good working relationship with all personnel. Work as a member of the fermentation plant team which includes assisting in the Pilot Plant. Controls, monitors, and measures fermentation processes as instructed. Abides by all safely, environmental, and quality requirements. Perform minor maintenance and duties related to product testing, including sampling.
Why work at Manus:
  • Opportunity - For motivated, results-oriented team members, our growth creates opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
  • Accountability - You are given the resources you need to succeed and the freedom to make it happen; in return, we hold each other accountable for our high expectations.
  • Passion - We love what we do and enjoy working with others who feel the same way. We embrace the challenge and hard work that come with working on the cutting edge.

Responsibilities:
Interface with production to provide resources to solve fermentation and product isolation problems. Execute and help evaluate fermentation experiments. This activity includes:
  • Prepare fermentation and downstream equipment in accordance to SOPs, this include equipment setup, media make up, equipment disassembly, cleaning, etc.
  • Collect samples during manufacturing process for analytical analysis.
  • Prepare all required batch records, reflect constantly changing experimental designs and ensure clear communication to the process development subject matter expert of the targeted design parameters.
  • Collect and review all batch records. Data reduction includes electronic data conversion into and formatting in Excel for purposes of trending key operational parameters. Data is reviewed and checked. Off-line analytical data is reviewed for accuracy, retesting if necessary. Final results are organized and distributed to the process development subject matter expert.
  • Coordinate day-to-day Fermentation Plant activities, including manufacturing scheduling conflicts, coordinating equipment maintenance and installation activities, troubleshooting process upsets, troubleshooting equipment and instrumentation problems, optimizing operations, addressing contamination issues, addressing downtime or other runtime losses.
  • Prepare SOP for new process or operations as needed.
  • Assist and provide hands-on support of Fermentation Plant maintenance activities, including rebuilding of probes and housings, changing out gear boxes on vessels, rebuilding valves, piping modifications, and modifying/fabricating new and existing equipment.
  • Maintain the upkeep of the Fermentation Plant equipment through the process of initiating work notifications/work orders and maintenance scheduling; Use your own tools to correct minor maintenance issues is encouraged.
  • Adhere to company EH&S policies and procedure. Ensure fermentation plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
  • Physical demand requirements are in excess of sedentary work due to inspection of equipment. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders.
  • Must be able to wear required protective equipment including respirators (if needed).
  • Work schedule is considered day shift but will vary depending on manufacturing plan and other extraordinary conditions.
  • Ensure Fermentation plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Minimum of 3 years fermentation or related plant operator experience.
  • Must be able to follow minimal instructions and support safe work practices.
  • Must be an excellent team member with strong communication skills and a desire to work collaboratively.
  • Must be flexible with day-to-day duties and able to thrive in a start-up environment.
  • Must hold themselves to the highest professional and ethical standards.
  • Familiar with the production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment as well as microbiological and analytical laboratory procedures.
  • Demonstrates flexibility in job rotations/various assignments.
  • Basic PC skills which include Windows, Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualification and Working Style:
  • SAP skills
  • Certified Train the Trainer skills
  • Delta V controls experience

Job Type: Regular, Full-Time
Employee Status: Permanent

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