Biosurfactant Plant Shift Operator

About Holiferm

Holiferm is leading a major shift in the $42 billion surfactant market - moving the industry away from fossil fuel–based chemicals and towards biodegradable, sustainable biosurfactants. Our patented fermentation and gravity separation technology enables commercially scalable, competitively priced biosurfactants that make real sustainability possible.

And while Holiferm may not be a household name you recognise, the brands we supply certainly are - from well-known global names to fast growing, future focused innovators. As demand for sustainable ingredients accelerates, we’re scaling fast, expanding our technology, and shaping the industry from the inside out. It’s an exciting time to join us and help drive the next wave of growth.

When you join us, you’ll be part of a dynamic, collaborative, and inclusive environment — whether you're in our R&D lab in Manchester or our commercial plant in Wallasey. You’ll have the autonomy, support and platform to innovate, grow, and make a real impact.

What You’ll Be Doing

We’re looking for a hands‑on, proactive Biosurfactant Plant Shift Operator who takes pride in running safe, reliable, and efficient production processes. You’ll play a key role in delivering high‑quality biosurfactant products by operating and monitoring both upstream and downstream elements of our commercial plant.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Safely, reliably, and sustainably running both upstream and downstream production processes.
• Operating a range of equipment including vessels up to 60,000L capacity, pumps, valves, and associated plant systems.
• Performing and monitoring fermentation and downstream processing operations.
• Working closely with the QC team to conduct analytical testing and verify product quality and yield.
• Collaborating with process development teams, production colleagues, and the supply chain manager to ensure product properties meet the needs of various applications and markets - transitioning from pilot‑scale to commercial‑scale manufacturing.

Standard shift patterns apply including rotating night shifts, with occasional flexibility required depending on production needs.

About You

You’re practical, dependable, and thrive in a production environment where quality and safety are paramount. You enjoy working with bioprocesses, take responsibility for your work, and communicate clearly with colleagues at all levels.

What You’re Great At (Essential)

• Operating pilot‑plant or production‑scale equipment (vessels, pumps, valves, etc.), ideally in biotechnology or a similar process‑driven industry.
• Interpreting and supporting fermentation process development, including reviewing and understanding fermentation data.
• Taking ownership of workstreams, tasks, and small projects and seeing them through.
• Communicating effectively as part of a multidisciplinary production team.

 It’s a Bonus If You Also Have…

• Experience with microorganisms, aseptic techniques, and inoculation practices.
• Background in fermentation scale‑up, process development, or downstream purification.
• Familiarity with biosurfactants, biotechnology operations, or bioprocessing workflows.
• Experience as a Process Operator, Plant Operator, Production Technician, or similar role in a regulated production environment.

How You Work

• You work safely, consistently, and with a high level of awareness.
• You communicate openly and respectfully, supporting colleagues and contributing to a positive team environment.
• You bring a problem‑solving mindset and adaptability to changing priorities.
• You are collaborative but also confident working independently when needed.

Your Background

Essential:

• Experience in a biotechnology, chemical, pharmaceutical, food, or similar process‑based manufacturing environment.
• Experience with fermentation or downstream processing.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work on shift.

Bonus:

• Additional training or qualifications in bioprocessing, fermentation, or process operations.
• Knowledge of microorganisms, aseptic methods, or biochemical production systems.

How You’ll Be Rewarded

We believe great work should feel genuinely rewarding - not just in what you do every day, but in how you’re supported. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• A competitive salary plus £7,000 shift allowance
• A strong benefits package that has your back - including a 7.5% employer pension contribution, income protection, life insurance (4x Salary) and comprehensive health, dental and mental health support.
• Share options, because we want you to grow with us as we scale.
• Flexible and hybrid working to help you balance life inside and outside of work.
• Access to an electric & plug‑in hybrid car scheme and a company reward/discount platform.
• Regular team events and socials (informal, inclusive, no pressure)
• Plus a few extra perks that make day-to-day life that little bit easier.

And It’s Not Just Words - Our Culture Really Works This Way

We know lots of companies say they value openness, wellbeing and teamwork - but at Holiferm, it’s genuinely how we operate every day. People here look out for each other, share knowledge freely, and celebrate wins together. Leaders are approachable, feedback is welcomed, and you’ll always have the support you need to do your best work.

Our culture isn’t a poster on a wall - it’s how we show up for each other, how we solve problems, and how we make sure everyone feels included, respected and able to thrive.

Not sure you tick every box? No worries.

We know job adverts can sometimes make great people doubt themselves. If this role sounds exciting and you’ve got most of what we’re after, we’d really love you to apply. You might be exactly who we’re looking for.

Diversity, Inclusion & Fair Opportunities

Holiferm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to an inclusive, respectful and equitable workplace.

If you need any adjustments - whether during the application process or at interview - just let us know. We want you to feel comfortable, supported and able to show us your best self.