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Fermentation Process Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in relevant scientific, engineering or business discipline, MBA preferred. * Understanding of the fermentation processes used in the Plant Health industry is desired. * Demonstrated ...

... and process monitoring, including data preparation, exploratory analysis, model execution, and ... Collaborate with chemists, engineers, data scientists, and operations partners on crossdisciplinary ...

... and process monitoring, including data preparation, exploratory analysis, model execution, and ... Collaborate with chemists, engineers, data scientists, and operations partners on crossdisciplinary ...

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Fermentation Process Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$48K

$89.2K

$138.1K

How much do fermentation process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for fermentation process engineer in Illinois is $89,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Fermentation Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical engineering, microbiology, or biotechnology, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with bioreactor systems, process control software, and statistical analysis tools, as well as certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing, is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot complex processes. These skills are essential to optimize production, ensure product quality, and drive innovation in fermentation-based manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by Fermentation Process Engineers during scale-up from lab to production?

Fermentation Process Engineers often encounter challenges when scaling up processes from the lab or pilot scale to full production, such as maintaining consistent product yields, ensuring sterility, and achieving optimal mixing and oxygen transfer. Differences in equipment size and configuration can affect heat and mass transfer rates, making it necessary to adjust parameters and monitor the process closely. Effective communication with cross-functional teams, including microbiologists and production operators, is crucial to address these issues and implement solutions promptly.

What does a Fermentation Process Engineer do?

A Fermentation Process Engineer specializes in designing, optimizing, and overseeing the industrial fermentation processes used to produce products such as pharmaceuticals, food additives, biofuels, and chemicals. Their responsibilities include scaling up laboratory processes to industrial levels, monitoring process parameters, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that production meets quality and safety standards. They often work closely with microbiologists, chemists, and production teams to improve yields and efficiency while minimizing costs and environmental impact.

What is the difference between Fermentation Process Engineer vs Microbiologist?

AspectFermentation Process EngineerMicrobiologist
CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical, Biochemical, or related engineering fieldBachelor's or higher in Microbiology or related science
Work EnvironmentIndustrial fermentation facilities, manufacturing plantsResearch labs, clinical or environmental settings
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage manufacturingResearch institutions, biotech, healthcare
Common Search IntentOptimizing fermentation processes, scale-upStudying microbial behavior, research

While both roles involve microbiology, the Fermentation Process Engineer focuses on designing, optimizing, and scaling fermentation processes in industrial settings. In contrast, Microbiologists primarily conduct research and study microorganisms, often in lab environments. The engineer's role is more application-driven within manufacturing, whereas microbiologists focus on scientific understanding.

What job categories do people searching Fermentation Process Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Fermentation Process Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Fermentation Process Engineer job openings in Illinois as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,167 per year, or $42.9 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineering Technician #26-11044

Manufacturing Engineering Technician #26-11044

US Tech Solutions

North Chicago, IL

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Duration: 12 Months Contract

Schedule: 6 AM -2:30 PM (Monday - Friday)


Description:

Engineering Technician I

The Engineering Technician within clients Transfusion Medicine will provide direct, hands-on technical support for full production operations. They will focus on ensuring reliable day-to-day performance of production automated equipment and manufacturing processes that support the world-wide manufacture of Biologics and Transfusion Diagnostic products to meet daily production schedules while enhancing productivity and product quality. The Engineering Technician serves as a key front line technical resource—troubleshooting equipment, resolving downtime issues, and maintaining operational readiness across multiple automated and semi-automated systems.


This includes activities, such as, but not limited to, technical support of manufacturing equipment (which includes 5 lines of automated filling/packaging machines, custom bottle assembly lines, multiple 10-1000L fermentation and bioprocess equipment, inspection vision systems, robotic pick & place units, integrated labeling systems), machine shop operations, material (commodity, packaging, etc.) testing, manufacturing, and process and laboratory equipment. The Engineering Technician role becomes the subject-matter-expert (SME) on specific equipment systems and provides guidance to other technicians and contractors to ensure timely and correct completion of assigned activities.


What You’ll Work On:

  • Provide real‑time technical support to production lines, responding quickly to equipment alarms, process interruptions, and mechanical/automation issues.
  • Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain a wide range of manufacturing equipment, including: Automated filling and packaging lines, Custom bottle assembly equipment, Fermentation and bioprocess units (10–1000L), Vision inspection systems, Robotic pick and place units or labeling and material handling equipment.
  • Serve as an equipment subject matter expert (SME) for assigned systems and assist in training/mentoring other technicians and maintenance personnel.
  • Engage in cutting-edge automation that supports all site manufacturing areas, including fermentation, biologics production, and automated fill/finish of instrument testing products.
  • Leverage your mechatronics skills to drive technical innovation, resolve design conflicts, and troubleshoot equipment systems methodically.
  • Work independently to apply systematic troubleshooting methods to diagnose and resolve issues with equipment and systems.
  • Stay flexible to evolving requirements and proactively anticipate customer needs for solutions and information.
  • Juggle multiple priorities simultaneously, ensuring commitments are met without compromising on quality.
  • Perform routine adjustments, preventive maintenance tasks, and component replacements to ensure equipment reliability.
  • Communicate clearly with production operators, engineering, and maintenance to ensure quick resolution of issues that impact throughput, yield, or quality.
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive records of work performed, including troubleshooting steps, testing, parts used, and equipment condition.
  • Identify improvement opportunities that enhance equipment uptime or reduce repetitive failures in processes and systems
  • Work with suppliers to ensure system parts meet performance and cost objectives.
  • Foster a positive attitude and cooperative relationships within the site organizations.


Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma and two years of qualifying experience (e.g. associate degree, two years of successful completion of a trade school) - OR - Junior college (or apprenticeship) certification in their selected field.
  • Six (6) years of related experience may be substituted for the two-year certificate. The six years may not be counted twice for both education and experience.
  • Experience with technical troubleshooting and support of both new and aging Facilities, Utilities and Equipment (FUE).
  • Ability to work effectively within a team in a fast-paced changing environment.
  • Must be capable of good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must have excellent interpersonal skills to successfully interface with production, engineering staff, and various development and maintenance groups.
  • Must be a self-starter, capable of organizing his/her work as well as the work of assigned clients technical persons, and outside contractors.
  • Must be capable of providing technical assistance in his/her selected area as well as recommend alternatives to the lead engineer or development person.
  • Must be capable of providing training to production operators in the use of equipment.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and know how to prioritize the workday to ensure deadlines are met.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Hands‑on mechanical or electrical technical experience in medical device, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, food & beverage, aerospace, automotive, or similar industries.
  • Associate degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related engineering technology.
  • Working knowledge of PLC‑controlled equipment (Rockwell/Allen Bradley, Siemens) preferred.
  • Ability to read mechanical/electrical drawings; familiarity with CAD, AutoCAD, or SolidWorks is a plus.
  • Experience with CMMS systems such as Maximo or SAP.
  • Familiarity with Lean/Continuous Improvement tools (5S, Root Cause Analysis, Kaizen, etc.).
  • Demonstrated “hands‑on,” problem‑solving mindset with strong analytical and diagnostic skills.


About US Tech Solutions:

US Tech Solutions is a global staff augmentation firm providing a wide range of talent on-demand and total workforce solutions. To know more about US Tech Solutions, please visit www.ustechsolutions.com.


US Tech Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.


AI Statement: By applying, you acknowledge that AI-assisted tools may be used during hiring.


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About US Tech Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

US Tech Solutions is a global staff augmentation firm providing a wide range of talent on-demand and total workforce solutions.

Industry

It services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Jersey City, NJ, US

Year founded

2000

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