Maintenance & Utilities Technician

Kyowa Kirin is a fast-growing global specialty pharmaceutical company applying state-of-the-art biotechnologies to discover and deliver medicines in four disease areas: bone and mineral; intractable hematologic; hematology oncology; and rare disease. Our North American headquarters are in Princeton, NJ, with offices in California, North Carolina, and Mississauga, Ontario.

The Maintenance/Utility Technician supports maintenance operations at a biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate has knowledge of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and/or experience in a highly regulated industry, facility and equipment maintenance, and regulatory compliance. This role ensures reliable operation of critical systems, minimizes downtime, and supports a clean and compliant production environment.

As an individual contributor, you will collaborate with others to create a supportive and inclusive environment, act in line with the organization’s values, and focus on delivering results while maintaining patient needs at the center of your efforts.

Essential Functions

Technical Skills

• Under supervision, perform scheduled inspections and maintenance on bioprocessing equipment (e.g., bioreactors, centrifuges, filtration units).
• Under supervision, perform preventive and corrective maintenance on boilers, chillers, air compressors, WFI water systems, HVAC, and other utilities as required.
• With assistance, diagnose equipment malfunctions and conduct timely repairs.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety.
• Provide support for start-up, commissioning, and turnover of new systems throughout the site.

Administrative

• Maintain accurate records for audits in compliance with GMP and FDA regulations.
• Work closely with process engineers, quality assurance, and manufacturing staff.
• Document root causes and assist in finding long-term solutions.

Education

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in a related field is a plus.

Experience

• 0-2 years relevant maintenance experience.
• Completion of the Bio Work certification program with the North Carolina Community College System is considered a plus.
• 1+ years’ experience within a GMP and/or other highly regulated environment highly desirable.
• Demonstrates a results-oriented approach and ability to operate in ambiguous environments by setting objectives, tracking progress, and delivering outcomes aligned with goals.
• Adapts to change with clarity and professionalism, supporting teams through evolving challenges; strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication with diverse stakeholders and commitment to inclusive collaboration.
• Maintains a growth mindset with continuous learning, resourcefulness, initiative, and integrity.

Work initially on a construction site and ultimately in a biotech manufacturing site in Sanford, NC. On-site work is required (not hybrid or remote).

• Requires up to 5% domestic travel.
• Shift: initially M-F Day shift during construction; later a 2-2-3 schedule during production runs.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted.
• Exposure to machinery, noise, and physical hazards with proper PPE.

The anticipated salary is $26.63 to $32.55 per hour. Actual salary offered may vary based on experience, skill set, qualifications, education, location, and business needs. Kyowa Kirin North America offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 401(k) with company matching
• Annual Bonus Program
• Generous PTO and Holiday Schedule, including seasonal shuts
• Healthcare benefits (Medical, Dental, Prescription Drugs, Vision)
• Well-being and work-life programs
• Long-Term Incentive Program (subject to job level and performance)
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Referral Awards

The compensation and benefits information applies to candidates hired in the United States. Other regions will receive benefits per local market practice.

Kyowa Kirin North America and its employees act in accordance with the law and with integrity in all operations.