Process Operator Day Shift

As an operator in our pilot plant, you are jointly responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable execution of biotechnological processes in which bacteria produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) from organic waste streams. You work at the intersection of process management, biotechnology, and sustainability, and perform duties in a development and scaling-up environment. The installation is running in preparation for the construction of a full-scale plant; your work can be continued there upon completion. Your workplace is Delfzijl (Farmsum).

• MBO-4 or HBO working and thinking level in process technology, biotechnology, chemical technology, or environmental technology.
• Approximately five years of work experience as an operator, preferably in a biobased, chemical, or similar industry.
• Knowledge of process automation (e.g. DCS/SCADA) and data recording systems.
• Experience with water quality analyses and interpreting results.
• A hands-on mentality and a precise working method, with an eye for detail, safety, and quality.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and control problems and perform basic maintenance.
• Affinity with sustainability, circular economy and innovative bioprocesses.
• Additional certifications relating to factory operations, such as VCA (VOL), are desirable.
• Strong communication skills, teamwork skills, and a can-do mentality.
• Ability to work and adapt in a rapidly changing environment.

• Operating, monitoring, and adjusting installations for biological production (fermentation) and separation/purification of PHA, such as bioreactors, decanter centrifuges, and dryers.
• Prepare, execute, and follow up test runs according to established protocols and safety guidelines.
• Setting and adjusting process parameters (temperature, pH, aeration, nutrient dosage).
• Accurately record process data, observations, and deviations in the process logbook and data/analysis sheets.
• Performing simple water analyses (e.g. HACH cuvette tests: COD/COD, nitrogen, phosphate, solids) for process monitoring.
• Performing (preventive) maintenance, cleaning, and calibration of equipment.
• Identifying, rectifying, and reporting deviations and malfunctions in the process or equipment.
• Collaborating with process engineers and researchers in the execution of pilot plans and the reporting of results and findings.
• Collaborate with operators from other pilot facilities and contribute ideas for improvements in process safety, efficiency, and reproducibility.
• Assisting in the training and guidance of junior operators.
• Monitoring compliance with the safety and production standards applicable at the chemical park.

• Start in day shift; on a rotating basis also process control outside the day shift (possibility of 2-shift work).
• Opportunity to take courses and training, if necessary.
• Possibility that operations will be continued in the full-scale plant after completion of the demo phase.

Work in a driven, collaborative, and innovative environment with values ​​such as bold passion, bold cooperation, bold creativity, and bold leadership. Colleagues share a passion for developing a natural alternative to plastic and actively support each other.