Lead bioprocess engineer

Novobiom is a fast-growing impact start-up with three ambitions:

• Environmental impact: Our DNA is rooted in leveraging the incredible potential of fungal and regenerative biotechnologies to remediate contamination and reduce the ecological footprint at scale, turning waste into wealth. Inspired by over 480 million years of natural R&D, we harness fungi to degrade complex molecules and produce green chemicals.
• Talent impact: We attract and develop individuals who can fully contribute to the environmental change we strive for.
• Organizational impact: We are on a mission to become a model organization where nature and people are at the core, serving both our environmental and talent missions efficiently and effectively.

Role overview

To support the growth of our Bioconversion unit, we are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Lead Bioprocess Engineer to join our team and play a crucial role in designing and scaling up our bioconversion processes.

In this role, you will work at the intersection of engineering, science and sustainability — translating cutting-edge innovative processes into scalable, industrial operations. You will collaborate closely with our team, complementing our strong expertise in microbiology, biochemistry, computational biology and business with solid process engineering expertise.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role where no two days look the same. You’ll be laying the groundwork for our first demo plant, informing the design of our first industrial plants, and helping us bring our vision of a fully circular biorefinery commercial operation to life.

Key responsibilities

Translate small-scale patented bioprocesses into scalable production systems. These include fungi-based fermentation, downstream separation and purification processes, as well as biomethanization processes, already tested in real-life environment. For this, you will work hand-in-hand with other team members with complementary expertise to understand and adapt processes for scale.

Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of our industrial processes, starting with demo and flagship plants. This includes:

• Directing external industry-leading process engineering partners supporting Novobiom, e.g., overseeing the development and validation of process digital twins, coordinate the engineering work and blue printing of the demo plant and future Flagship plant.
• Leading equipment selection, layout design, safety protocols, and process integration.
• Identifying bottlenecks, testing solutions, and iterating quickly in a startup environment.
• Leading the construction and operation of the textile recycling demo plant
• Helping create documentation and systems for future operational scale-up.

Qualifications

Educational Background: Master’s degree or higher in AgriFood / AgriWaste engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field.

Professional Experience:

• Significant experience in agrifood and/ or bioprocess engineering, e.g., in the design and operation of biorefinery or related plants (5+ years).
• Experience designing and scaling USP fermentation and DSP separation, purification of biomolecules (experience with biosurfactants is a plus). Strong understanding of bioprocess principles, proficiency in equipment design and selection for bioreactors, centrifuges, filters, and other process units.
• Experience with turning lab-scale processes into industrial processes, building a pilot plant or demo plant is highly desirable.
• Experience and understanding of digital twins / process simulation tools
• Familiarity with process control systems and instrumentation.
• Proven experience in coordinating and collaborating effectively with external partners
• Familiarity with relevant regulatory and safety frameworks in biotech or chemical plants
• Leadership /Project management
• Proven experience in managing complex engineering projects, including project planning, execution, and tracking.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.

Passion for the mission: If you are the ideal candidate, your motivation should stem from the urgent need to restore our planet. Your role goes beyond a job; it is a commitment to be a part of a team that builds and implements the best solutions for a sustainable future.

Entrepreneurial spirit: Familiarity with startup culture and ability to thrive in a dynamic, often ambiguous environment. Our processes are still being built — and that is part of the fun. If you enjoy rolling up your sleeves, figuring things out as you go, taking ownership for inventing, solidifying, and scaling up solutions, you will feel right at home here. This role requires the ability to move forward even when not all the pieces are in place. We are looking for someone who can focus on what matters most, with a collaborative, positive and caring mindset. This is particularly key as this is a leadership role.

Communication and collaboration:

• Great interpersonal skills, able to collaborate, mobilize and communicate clearly with stakeholders with diverse experience, skills and roles – both internally and externally.
• Fluency/ proficiency in English and French both oral and written is required to effectively communicate with team members, clients, and partners.

To apply

Apply now by sending a cover letter and your cv to BioprocessEngineer@novobiom.com.

In your cover letter, please highlight your experience related to the responsibilities of this role and qualifications required. Also, briefly describe your experience working in a startup or similar environment, if applicable.

The selection process includes multiple steps to ensure a great fit between you and Novobiom:

• An initial call to get to know you and discuss your background and motivation.
• A formal interview with our HR Consultant to explore your skills, experience, and career aspirations.
• A meeting with our COO to dive into Novobiom’s mission, values, and long-term vision.
• A final discussion with our CEO to gain a deeper understanding of your personality, alignment with the company culture, and overall fit within the team.

Why join us?

Joining Novobiom is an opportunity to be part of a high-impact, fast-growing and well-funded start-up, driven by innovation and a passion for nature. You will strive in a collaborative environment, where your voice can be heard and your impact on earth can be huge!