Scale-up Engineer

Zymofix is a dynamic and innovative scale-up dedicated to fostering sustainable and circular agriculture. We specialize in creating effective and economically viable microbial products designed to reduce farmers' reliance on agrochemicals while maintaining high levels of productivity. Positioned at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower farmers to cultivate healthy products and enhance their yields without resorting to chemical fertilizers. Zymofix is planning the construction of an industrial-scale demonstration plant in 2027.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities We are looking for a Scale-up Engineer with a critical mindset to reinforce our engineering team. You will be responsible for:

• Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the current pilot plant installations, including production of fermentation substrates using our novel thermophysical pretreatment system.
• Writing up and scheduling the tests required for process development, and planning and helping carry out production runs for both process development and client projects.
• Expanding and maintaining the new pilot plant by identifying, designing, and building new process units: commissioning new equipment, drafting operating procedures and manuals, and developing improvement proposals.
• Ensuring safety throughout all pilot plant operations.
• Producing for clients while building the internal knowledge needed to scale up — reviewing current small-scale processes and equipment, assessing scale-up potential, performing risk analyses, and taking part in the construction and engineering of the new industrial plant, including the commissioning team.
• Depending on your profile and interests, the exact task package can be shaped around your strengths.

You might be our perfect match if you meet the requirements below. But don't worry if you don't tick every box, we dare you to apply anyway. You never know if there’s another role at Zymofix that's a better fit for your skills.

• A bachelor's or master's degree in (bio)chemistry, process engineering, or a related field; a background in electromechanical engineering is also considered, particularly when combined with relevant hands-on experience in a similar field.
• A hands-on, practical way of working.
• Experience in process engineering and project management.
• Fermentation know-how: process and equipment design from lab to industrial scale; experience with large-scale/pilot-scale fermentation (from 50 L) is a plus.
• Proven experience working safely in hazardous environments (chemicals, high-pressure systems, pilot plants) with strict adherence to safety protocols.
• Demonstrate ownership in last-minute hazard evaluations and leadership in promoting a safety-first culture.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, basic electrical knowledge, and affinity with biochemical processes. Knowledge of automation is a plus.
• Ability to read, interpret, and create technical documents, equipment manuals, and process diagrams.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a hands-on approach to addressing technical challenges.
• Experience with lab analysis and working with microorganisms.
• Fluency in English and Dutch (both verbal and written).

The role requires strong technical skills, a high degree of independence, and the ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team. You draw energy from collective success.