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Microbial Fermentation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EKF Diagnostics Inc

Bioprocess Engineer

South Bend, IN · On-site

Provides technical leadership in microbial fermentation and bioprocess operations. This role involves a specialized focus on optimizing microbial fermentation and managing critical downstream process ...

EKF DIAGNOSTICS INC

Bioprocess Engineer

South Bend, IN

$75K - $95K/yr

Provides technical leadership in microbial fermentation and bioprocess operations. This role involves a specialized focus on optimizing microbial fermentation and managing critical downstream process ...

EKF DIAGNOSTICS INC

Bioprocess Engineer

South Bend, IN · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Provides technical leadership in microbial fermentation and bioprocess operations. This role involves a specialized focus on optimizing microbial fermentation and managing critical downstream process ...

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How much do microbial fermentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbial fermentation in the United States is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is microbial fermentation?

Microbial fermentation is a biological process in which microorganisms like bacteria, yeast, or fungi convert organic compounds—such as sugars—into products like alcohol, acids, gases, or bioactive molecules. This process is widely used in food production (like yogurt, cheese, and beer), pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology industries to produce enzymes, antibiotics, and other valuable products. Microbial fermentation can occur under aerobic or anaerobic conditions, depending on the microorganism and the desired end product. It is a key technology for sustainable manufacturing and plays a crucial role in both traditional and modern industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in microbial fermentation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in microbial fermentation often face challenges such as contamination control, maintaining optimal growth conditions, and scaling up processes from laboratory to industrial production. Addressing these issues requires rigorous aseptic techniques, constant monitoring of environmental parameters (like pH, temperature, and oxygen levels), and ongoing collaboration with quality assurance and process engineering teams. Regular training, standardized protocols, and clear communication with cross-functional teams help ensure smooth operation and minimize the risk of batch failures.

What is the difference between Microbial Fermentation vs Microbiologist?

AspectMicrobial FermentationMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsLaboratory training, certifications in fermentation techniquesDegree in microbiology or related field, certifications may vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, production facilities, biotech companiesResearch labs, healthcare, environmental agencies
Industry UsageBiotech, food & beverage, pharmaceuticalsHealthcare, research, environmental science

Microbial Fermentation specialists focus on applying fermentation processes to produce products, while microbiologists study microorganisms broadly. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work in laboratory settings, but their primary goals differ: one is process-oriented, the other research-oriented.

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

To excel as a Microbial Fermentation Specialist, you need a solid background in microbiology, biochemistry, and fermentation science, usually supported by a degree in a related field. Familiarity with bioreactors, aseptic techniques, analytical instrumentation, and relevant certifications such as GMP or GLP are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork and communication skills help individuals stand out in this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reproducible production of microbial products in industrial and research settings.
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Microbial Fermentation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbial Fermentation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,534 per year, or $20 per hour.

Fermentation Engineer

Sumitomo Chemical Group Companies of America

Osage, IA • On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

*Sumitomo Biorational formally known as Valent BioSciences*

About Us:

Sumitomo Biorational Company 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.

JOB SUMMARY and KEY OBJECTIVES


The purpose of this position is to assist production in meeting all safety, quality, delivery and cost goals set by VBC Management. The individual 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. The Pilot Plant Engineer will also act as mentor and leader to Production Specialists and Interns.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Support and comply with all safety and environmental training policies and programs
  • Optimize microbial fermentation processes of the existing fermentation products by conducting pilot (2L to 10,000L) fermentation experimentation.
  • Scale up new microbial fermentation processes from research to production.
  • Participate in new product development and realization projects
  • Track and trend yield and quality data for each fermentation batch for all products to identify and eliminate special cause variation and recommend continuous improvement projects
  • Identify, develop and implement creative practical solutions to improve the economics of the fermentation processes
  • Participate in cost-saving initiatives, and maintain or improve product quality and yield
  • Establish procedures to ensure efficient operation and maintenance of commercial-scale fermenters and all related fermentation equipment
  • Provide fermentation support to production
  • Advice and train plant operators, production specialists and supervisors
  • Foster a continuous process improvement environment and help implement new technologies

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES and TASKS


  • Mentor new employees and Interns.
  • Write, review and execute process validation procedures
  • Write, update and maintain production master batch records, work instructions and other standard operating procedures and training manuals
  • Chart, track and analyze other production data to recommend and implement lean manufacturing projects
  • Proactively identify problems and develop solutions to improve manufacturing operations and safety
  • Review and adjust cost standards/bill of materials
  • Assist production with troubleshooting, drive root cause analysis investigations and implement fail safe solutions as corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)
  • Other duties as required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS and EDUCATION

  • BS in chemical engineering, bioengineering, biotechnology, biochemical engineering, biology, or other related fields is required, M.S. or Ph.D. preferred
  • Hands-on experience with industrial scale microbial fermentation processes or a strong interest in developing such skills is desired
  • 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:

You’ll enjoy competitive compensation, consisting of base pay plus an incentive program available to all full-time employees, and a comprehensive benefits package including high-quality healthcare options, 401k matching, life and disability insurance, generous time off (with time off to volunteer) and much more! Additionally, we offer several Flexible Work Arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.

We work together to power our sustainable future. Here's what drives us: Sumitomo Biorational has a strong commitment to both sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). In fact, being a responsible corporate citizen has been ingrained in our culture since the company’s founding. Today, it remains at the forefront of everything we do.

  • Sumitomo Biorational Company 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.

#LI-ONSITE

#Sumitomo