Pilot Operations Manager

Deep Branch is a leading biotechnology company that utilizes clean and renewable carbon and energy sources to produce sustainable food ingredients. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Pilot Operations Manager to join our dynamic team. At Deep Branch, we have developed a groundbreaking gas fermentation platform, which presents unique challenges and opportunities in R&D, engineering, and operations. We are looking for a candidate who can work collaboratively across disciplines to drive the scale-up of this technology and contribute to the development of a more sustainable food system.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage day-to-day operations of our pilot plant, ensuring efficient and safe operation
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement operational strategies and procedures
• Monitor and optimize performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in productivity and efficiency
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to troubleshoot any operational issues that may arise
• Coordinate the scheduling and execution of experiments and production runs in the pilot plant
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent and reliable operations
• Train and mentor junior team members on best practices and safety protocols
• Manage relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials and equipment
• Perform regular equipment inspections and maintenance to ensure proper functioning and reliability
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in biotechnology to drive innovation and efficiency

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• Proven experience (3+ years) managing operations in a biotechnology or related industry
• Strong knowledge of pilot plant operations, process optimization, and scale-up
• Familiarity with fermentation technologies and principles
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot operational issues
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and safety
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate across cross-functional teams
• Ability to effectively manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient in using process control systems and monitoring software
• Experience with regulatory compliance and quality systems is preferred