Believer Meats is an innovative start-up revolutionizing the food industry through the development and commercialization of cultivated meat products. Leveraging cutting-edge biotechnology, we aim to provide sustainable, ethical, and high-quality meat alternatives to consumers worldwide. As we near completion of a new plant and prepare for commercialization, we are seeking an Upstream Operator- Automation to join our team.

JOB SUMMARY

The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless operation of automated bioreactor systems and other upstream processing equipment. This position involves designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing automation solutions to support large-scale cell cultivation and bioprocessing. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automation technologies, instrumentation, and process control within a bioprocessing or similar industrial environment. This is a great opportunity to get broad exposure to upstream processing operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Automation System Implementation:

• Support implementation,
  maintenance, and ongoing development of automation systems for bioreactors and related upstream processing equipment.

• Design and integrate control systems, including sensors, actuators, and data acquisition systems, to monitor and regulate bioprocessing conditions.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure automation solutions align with production goals and process requirements.

Instrumentation and Control:

• Select, calibrate, and install instrumentation required for monitoring critical parameters such as temperature, pH, oxygen levels, and nutrient concentrations.

• Ensure accurate and reliable data collection through regular maintenance and calibration of instruments.

• Troubleshoot and repair instrumentation issues to minimize downtime and maintain process efficiency.

Process Monitoring and Optimization:

• Continuously monitor and analyze data from automated systems to identify trends, optimize process parameters, and improve cell growth and production yields.

• Implement process control strategies to maintain
  optimal conditions within bioreactors and other upstream equipment.

• Collaborate with bioprocess engineers and technicians to develop and refine process control algorithms.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting:

• Conduct routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on automation equipment and instrumentation to ensure optimal performance.

• Respond promptly to equipment failures or malfunctions, diagnose issues, and implement corrective actions.

• Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for maintenance and troubleshooting activities.

Continuous Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for automation enhancements and process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.

• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in automation technologies and instrumentation and apply relevant innovations to the production process.

• Participate in cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Compliance and Documentation:

• Ensure all automation and instrumentation activities comply with regulatory requirements and company standards.

• Maintain accurate documentation, including calibration records, maintenance logs, and process change controls.

• Support audits and inspections by providing necessary documentation and technical expertise.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field preferred.

• 2+ years of experience in automation and instrumentation within a bioprocessing, pharmaceutical, food production, or similar industrial setting.

• Hands-on experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, and DCS (Distributed Control Systems).

• Proven track record in designing and maintaining automated control systems for industrial processes.

• Strong understanding of instrumentation and process control systems.

• Proficiency in programming and configuring PLCs, HMI/SCADA systems, and other automation hardware/software.

• Experience with data analysis tools and techniques for process optimization.

• Knowledge of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and regulatory compliance requirements.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex systems.

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

• Relevant certifications in automation or control systems (e.g., ISA Certified Control Systems Technician) are a plus.
• Must consistently follow all safety and food safety protocols, guidelines, and procedures to ensure a safe working environment. This includes properly using personal protective equipment (PPE), identifying and reporting potential hazards, and actively participating in safety training and initiatives. A commitment to maintaining a culture of safety and minimizing risks to yourself and your colleagues is essential.
• Ability to regularly commute to and work on-site in Wilson, North Carolina.
• Authorized to work in the US (Believer is an E-Verify participant).
• Ability to pass pre-employment background screening, physical, and drug test (if applicable).

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This role may require occasional off-shift work to address urgent automation issues or during major process upgrades.

• The position may involve working in a controlled laboratory or factory environment with exposure to bioprocessing equipment.

• Must be able to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

With or without reasonable accommodation

• This role may require occasional off-shift work to address urgent automation issues or during major process upgrades.

• The position may involve working in a controlled laboratory or factory environment with exposure to bioprocessing equipment.

• Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds as needed. Proficient in using appropriate lifting techniques to prevent injury.

EEO STATEMENT

Believer is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, genetic information, marital status, national origin, disability, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by law with respect to recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment.

We also provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals in accordance with applicable laws. If you need to inquire about accommodation during the application process or employment, please contact HR (careers@believermeats.com).