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Fermentation Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ADM

Ethanol Support Engineer - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL

$90K - $144K/yr

We are seeking an experienced fermentation scientist/engineer to lead the design, optimization, and scale-up of commercial ethanol fermentation processes. The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Afton, MN

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Baldwin, WI · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Wilson, WI

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Cottage Grove, MN

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA Group

Process Engineer

Hudson, WI

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Saint Paul, MN

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Somerset, WI

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Hastings, MN

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Stillwater, MN

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA

Process Engineer

Ellsworth, WI · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

GEA Group

Process Engineer

Hudson, WI · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer will support sales, engineering, commissioning and optimization of GEA process systems in the Liquid, Fermentation, and Filling engineering team. This position is focused on ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Pilot Fermentation Engineer - Decatur, IL The Pilot Fermentation Engineer is responsible for ... The engineer will oversee the evaluation of alternative process configurations as well as designing ...

Corbion

Process Engineer

Blair, NE

Leveraging our advanced capabilities in fermentation and preservation technology, we help customers ... Facilities, Process Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Electronics Engineer, Chemical Engineer ...

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Fermentation Process Engineer information

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$49.5K

$92K

$142.5K

How much do fermentation process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for fermentation process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
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What cities are hiring for Fermentation Process Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Fermentation Process Engineer job openings:
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Fermentation Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fermentation Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 96% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,018 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Sr. Fermentation Engineer

Sumitomo Chemical Group Companies of America

Osage, IA • On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

*Sumitomo Biorational formally known as Valent BioSciences*


Sr. Fermentation Engineer

About Us:

Sumitomo Biorational is a worldwide leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of biorational products for the agriculture, public health, and forestry markets. We have more than 60 years of experience bringing biorational products to market, and our products are used in sustainable operations in 95 countries around the world. Biorational products maximize plant quality, productivity, and sustainability.

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Chemical, Sumitomo Biorational operates with the Sumitomo Spirit mindset, which means to benefit both self and others, recognizing that private and public interests are one and the same. It’s about contributing to society, as well as making a profit.

The Sumitomo Biorational manufacturing site located on an expansive 73-acre site in Osage, IA is a state of the art 130,000 square foot plant and is the largest purpose-built biorational facility in the world. It serves as the manufacturing and quality control center for Sumitomo Biorational's broad portfolio of fermentation products.


Description of Job:

As a Sr. Fermentation Engineer at Sumitomo Biorational you will assist production in meeting all safety, quality, delivery and cost goals set by management. You will have knowledge of fermentation science and biochemical engineering principles, theory and practice with special focus on microbial fermentation operations in an industrial setting or a strong interest in acquiring such skills. As Sr. Fermentation Engineer, you will also act as mentor and leader to Production Specialists and Interns.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Ensure compliance with company safety and environmental policies and training programs.
  • Monitor and analyze fermentation batch yield, quality, and production data to identify improvement opportunities.
  • Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost performance.
  • Develop and maintain production documentation including batch records, work instructions, and SOPs.
  • Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
  • Collaborate with production teams to optimize fermentation, recovery, and formulation processes.
  • Support cost management activities including bill of materials and cost standard reviews.
  • Train and advise plant operators, production specialists, and supervisors on processes and best practices.
  • Participate in capital projects, technology implementation, and cost-saving initiatives.
  • Contribute to new product development, process validation, and experimentation to improve process performance and product yield.
  • Develop and apply statistical models and data analysis to optimize manufacturing processes.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • BS in chemical engineering, bioengineering, biotechnology, biochemical engineering, biology, or other related fields is required, M.S. or Ph.D. preferred
  • Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience with industrial scale microbial fermentation processes is required
  • Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Must be able to work independently and as a part of an interdisciplinary, diverse team
  • Good working knowledge of chemical and biochemical process unit operations is a plus
  • Excellent computer skills are desired
  • Working knowledge and understanding of process control and automation is a plus
  • Industrial scale hands-on plant experience with process optimization and Six Sigma experience is a plus
  • Must have flexibility to work some limited off-shift and weekend hours in order to support all production shifts when needed


What We Offer:

We recognize that compensation and benefits play a crucial role in your career decisions. That’s why we’re dedicated to equitable pay practices and transparency in how we reward our employees.


Base Salary: The estimated annual base salary for this position ranges from: $100,500 to $115,500. Individual pay is based upon location, skills, experience, and other relevant factors.


Incentives: All full-time employees are eligible for an incentive program or profit-sharing program in addition to their base salary.


Benefits:

• High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans

• 5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus

• Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions

• Financial assistance programs to support your goals

• Life and disability insurance for added security

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days


Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

At Sumitomo Biorational Company, we’re proud to power a sustainable future through our work. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been at the core of our culture since the beginning. Today, they continue to drive everything we do.


Join us in making a meaningful impact and contributing to a better world.


• Sumitomo Biorational is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and/or identity, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.


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