Bioprocess Engineer - Pilot Plant (Fermentation & DSP)

About the role

As a Bioprocess Engineer in the Pilot Plant at Nestlé Research, you will lead the translation of laboratory discoveries into scalable fermentation and downstream processing solutions. You will work closely with pilot‑plant teams, scientists, engineers, quality and safety specialists, and external partners to develop sustainable bioprocesses for food, pet, and health applications.

Key responsibilities

• Lead pilot‑scale bioprocess trials to convert promising research into manufacturing‑ready processes.
• Develop and optimise fermentation processes, including media formulation, feeding strategies and operating parameters.
• Design downstream processing approaches that maximise yield, recovery and product quality.
• Analyse process data, apply automation insights and digital tools to improve reproducibility and optimisation.
• Ensure safe, compliant pilot‑plant operations through risk assessments, documentation and continuous improvement.
• Translate process needs into equipment and facility specifications for new biotech pilot‑plant capabilities.

Required profile

• Strong expertise in fermentation, bioprocessing and pilot‑ or industrial‑scale operations.
• Proven experience with scale‑up, technology transfer and industrialisation of processes.
• Analytical mindset with ability to use process data and automation tools for troubleshooting and optimisation.
• Hands‑on collaborative approach across research, engineering, operations, quality and safety teams.
• Excellent communication skills in English or French.

Required skills

• Fermentation process development
• Downstream processing techniques
• Scale‑up and technology transfer
• Process data analysis
• Automation tools for bioprocess optimisation

What we offer

• Flexible working options, including hybrid possibilities for office‑based roles.
• Paid holidays beyond legal requirements.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Performance‑based bonus.
• Healthcare contribution and Employee Assistance Program.
• Strong pension contribution.
• Generous parental leave and family support.
• Employee discounts on Nestlé products and services.