About the job
The Verschuren Centre is an independent clean technology development and deployment facility. We offer client-tailored services to support companies in developing sustainable solutions that meet industry needs. As part of the Bio Manufacturing team, you will assist in operating a unique pilot scale bioprocess production model that combines both upstream and downstream operations. The Senior Process Operator is responsible for coordinating the day-to-day operation of the biomanufacturing pilot and industrial-scale facilities while providing leadership and oversight to a team of Industrial Operators. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines operational execution with planning, scheduling, equipment readiness, maintenance coordination, and continuous improvement.
Together with your team, you will support process development, optimization and scale-up, and product recovery and characterization services. You will work with innovative clients to develop their products at a Pilot & Industrial scale level, participating in validating and de-risking their technology to ensure they hit commercial markets in sustainable biomanufacturing. Additionally, you will help to maintain the equipment and utilities to uphold high levels of safety and efficiency within the facility.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Operations Leadership & Coordination
- Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and technical support to Industrial Operators.
- Coordinate operator schedules and daily work assignments to ensure adequate coverage and efficient utilization of resources.
- Lead shift planning, work prioritization, and communication between operations, technical teams, and project managers.
- Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and process optimization.
- Support training, onboarding, and competency development of Industrial Operators.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.
Facility & Process Operations
- Oversee and participate in the operation of utilities including, but not limited to:
- Electric boiler systems
- Multi-stage air compressors
- RO water systems
- Large-scale bioreactors (100L–10,000L)
- Ensure equipment readiness and operational availability for client projects and internal initiatives.
- Support upstream and downstream process operations, including fermentation, centrifugation, filtration, spray drying, and auxiliary processing equipment.
- Assist with equipment setup, commissioning, and process execution activities.
- Participate in Clean-in-Place (CIP) and Steam-in-Place (SIP) operations and ensure adherence to established procedures.
Maintenance & Asset Management
- Coordinate routine preventative maintenance schedules and ensure completion of maintenance activities.
- Perform and oversee minor maintenance activities including filter replacements, inspections, troubleshooting, and equipment adjustments.
- Maintain maintenance records, equipment logs, and operational documentation.
- Coordinate with external vendors and service providers when specialized maintenance support is required.
- Monitor facility utilities and equipment performance to identify and address issues before operational impacts occur.
Safety, Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure all operations are conducted in accordance with health, safety, environmental, and operational procedures.
- Maintain accurate operational records, maintenance logs, and production documentation.
- Participate in safety inspections, risk assessments, and incident investigations as required.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives related to operational efficiency, reliability, and safety.
Additional Responsibilities
- Collaborate with technical teams to support client projects, scale-up activities, and process development initiatives.
- Participate in project planning meetings and operational readiness reviews.
- Other duties as assigned based on business and operational requirements.
Qualifications and Eligibility:
You have an educational background in a relevant field, coupled with experience in the industry, which gives you a strong knowledge in fermentation at bench and pilot scales. You are a highly detailed, focused individual with excellent analytical skills. You enjoy leading a small team and have the strong communication and interpersonal skills required to do so. Additionally, you possess excellent organizational and time-management skills, with a demonstrated history of meeting deliverables with a sense of urgency.
Your qualifications include:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial, manufacturing, bioprocessing, chemical processing, or related operations.
- Demonstrated experience leading or coordinating operational teams.
- Diploma or certification in a relevant field such as:
- Power Engineering (3rd Class preferred)
- Chemical Engineering Technology
- Biochemical Engineering Technology
- Industrial Process Operations
- Other related technical disciplines
- Strong knowledge of industrial process equipment, utilities, and maintenance practices.
- Experience with preventative maintenance programs and equipment troubleshooting.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to diagnose operational issues.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and scheduling skills.
All interested and qualified candidates are asked to submit their cover letter and resume to [email protected] reference the job title in which you are applying for in your cover letter and email subject.
Pay: From $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- RRSP match
- Vision care
Application question(s):
- How many years of Team Management do you have?
Work Location: In person
