Plant Operations Scientist​/Senior Plant Operations Scientist

Plant Operations Scientist/Senior Plant Operations Scientist

Pharmaron is excited to offer an opportunity for a Plant Operations Scientist/Senior Plant Operations Scientist to join our dynamic Operations team at our state-of-the-art GMP multi-purpose Pilot Plant facility in Hoddesdon. This pivotal role supports the scale-up and manufacture of small-molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients, contributing directly to the successful delivery of client projects.

If you have a passion for process chemistry, thrive in a hands-on technical setting, and are looking to develop or advance your career in the pharmaceutical industry, we'd love to hear from you!

We're hiring one person and welcome applications from graduates through to experienced scientists. Appointment at Plant Operations Scientist or Senior Plant Operations Scientist level will depend on your relevant experience and ability to work independently.

You'll work closely with process chemists, typically in pairs: the process chemist brings the chemistry, and you bring the pilot-plant expertise needed to execute it.

• Vibrant and dynamic employment - we are a highly specialised, growth company operating in a critical sector of the economy - our future is strong and exciting!
• Opportunities to develop your skills and yourself - our rapid growth brings greater opportunities for you to learn and grow faster!
• A great team where we all support each other - enjoy your work - after all you spend about a third of your time here!

• Support the scale-up and execution of small-molecule synthesis in the pilot plant.
• Plan practical work with process chemists and colleagues in plant operations.
• Operate, maintain, and develop expertise in pilot-scale equipment, including 20-1000 L reactors, filters, dryers, flow chemistry and chromatography equipment, in a GMP environment.
• Accurately follow batch documentation and SOPs for chemical manufacturing processes.
• Record process data, carry out tasks, and complete documentation in a compliant manner.
• Meticulously prepare and clean the plant and equipment to eliminate the potential for contamination.
• Work collaboratively with process and analytical chemists, engineers, and QA teams to ensure safe and compliant operations.
• Troubleshoot practical problems and stay calm when experimental processes do not go to plan.
• Build your knowledge of pilot-plant techniques, equipment and scale-up principles, taking on more independent work as you develop.

• Demonstrate mastery of the core skills needed to operate and scale up chemical processes in pilot-scale equipment in a GMP environment.
• Take ownership of equipment and independently lead investigations or solve facility issues of moderate complexity.
• Provide mentoring and training for junior staff in facility best practices.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in safety, process efficiency, and documentation.
• Support the transfer of technology from R&D to GMP production and help resolve scale-up challenges.

• An MSc or BSc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific or technical discipline that provides a relevant chemistry background, or equivalent relevant industry experience.
• Previous experience in a GMP or regulated production, laboratory or pilot-plant environment is desirable for the Scientist role and essential for the Senior role.
• Strong awareness of health and safety in a chemical processing setting.
• A practical approach to problem-solving and a willingness to learn.
• The ability to plan work carefully and pay close attention to documentation.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work…