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Fermentation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Services

Chemical Operator

Bowling Green, OH · On-site

$24/hr

Labeling of fermentation vessel pipes and valves * Participate in safety training programs ... Chemical Operator experience preferred * Preferred confined space, lock out tag out training

Kelly Services

Chemical Operator

Bowling Green, OH

$24/hr

Labeling of fermentation vessel pipes and valves * Participate in safety training programs ... Chemical Operator experience preferred * Preferred confined space, lock out tag out training

Red Star Yeast Company

Operator, Process-DOTH

Headland, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Follow established fermentation procedures, make adjustments to the processes or processing equipment, manually or through a central processing computer. * Notify lead operator of equipment failures ...

Red Star Yeast Company

Operator, Process-DOTH

Headland, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Follow established fermentation procedures, make adjustments to the processes or processing equipment, manually or through a central processing computer. * Notify lead operator of equipment failures ...

Lesaffre Group

Operator, Process-DOTH

Headland, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Follow established fermentation procedures, make adjustments to the processes or processing equipment, manually or through a central processing computer. * Notify lead operator of equipment failures ...

BioZyme Inc

Fermentation Manager

Saint Joseph, MO · On-site

Purpose The Fermentation Manager is responsible for the operation and cleanliness of specialized ... Ability to pass a written and driving exam to prove capability of safely operating a forklift

Microbial Discovery Group

Blending Operator II

Oak Creek, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Microbial Discovery Group (MDG) is an R&D-driven product development and Bacillus fermentation ... Position Summary : The Blending Operator II (BO2) is a key role in the production process ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Windsor, WI

$21 - $25/hr

Operate and maintain fermentation tanks and various food production machinery including packaging machinery, labelers, vats, dryers, and conveyor systems. * Perform sanitation duties to maintain ...

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Fermentation Operator information

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$12

$19

$25

How much do fermentation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 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 is the highest paying job in food engineering?

In food engineering, senior roles such as Food Engineering Manager or Director often have the highest salaries, especially in large companies or specialized sectors. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they can offer compensation significantly higher than entry-level roles like fermentation operators.

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 does a fermentation operator do?

A fermentation operator is responsible for overseeing the fermentation process in manufacturing, ensuring that microbial or enzymatic reactions occur correctly to produce products like beverages, biofuels, or pharmaceuticals. They monitor equipment, control parameters such as temperature and pH, and follow safety and quality protocols, often working with fermentation tanks and using process control systems.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A fermentation operator typically earns less than $4,000 per week, but high-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree include roles such as commercial pilot, sales manager, real estate broker, or certain skilled trades like elevator installers. These positions often require specialized training, certifications, or extensive experience rather than formal college degrees.

How much does a fermentation scientist make?

A fermentation scientist's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in biotech or pharmaceutical industries.

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 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.

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.
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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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 6% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,702 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Chemical Operator

Chemical Operator

Kelly Services

Bowling Green, OH • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Chemical Operator
Work Schedule: Sunday-Thursday; 11pm-7am 
Location: Bowling Green, OH
Job Status: Direct Hire/Full Benefits
Salary: $24 per hour with potential pay increases
The Chemical Operator will be responsible for the manufacturing of microbial products, monitoring  the downstream process of the fermenters.
Job Responsibilities: other duties may be assigned as needed.
  • Ensure standard operating procedures are followed and reviewed
  • Ensure batch records are completed
  • Pulling of correct raw materials for fermentation
  • Assist in monitoring of fermentation inventory
  • Assist in downstream processing of fermentors; (centrifugation, spray drying)
  • Assist in preventative maintenance of fermentation equipment
  • Ensure department is clean and organized at all times and free of hazards and safety violations
  • Operation of forklifts as required
  • Batching of media for fermentation runs
  • SIP, CIP of fermentors
  • Work odd shifts as required
  • Labeling of fermentation vessel pipes and valves
  • Participate in safety training programs
  • Monitoring of in process fermentation
  • Assist with microscopic observation of bacteria example: harvest of batch
  • Ensuring fermentation equipment is labelled
  • Using of the autoclave for fermentation addition bottles example: acid, base, defoamer bottles
  • Assist in the training of new technicians
  • Strong knowledge of pressure vessels
  • Strong knowledge of pump and pumping operations
  • The ability to identify different types of valves and how they operate, (both pneumatic and hand valves)
  • Strong trouble shooting skills in both mechanical and electrical applications
  • Basic sampling skills
  • Chemical Operator experience preferred
  • Preferred confined space, lock out tag out training
  • Experience working with boilers a plus
  • Experience working with PLC's and HMI a plus
Job Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Proficient with Microsoft Word and Outlook
  • Must be able to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Ability to work odd shift and Overtime as needed
For immediate consideration, please forward your updated resume.

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Why Kelly® Science & Clinical?

Kelly Science & Clinical is your connection to premier scientific and clinical companies looking to hire industry experts just like you. Our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. Every day, we match science professionals with dream jobs that fit their skills, interests, and career goals-it’s the way we think job searching should be. Nearly 100 percent of our science recruiters have a professional background and education in science, so we know a thing or two about the science market and how to get your expertise noticed.

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