Job title – Lead Technician Bioprocess development / Senior Technician Downstream processing (72610)
Location – Delft, Netherlands
Job model – Onsite


We are seeking a highly skilled Downstream Processing Technician with a strong background in data analysis to play a key role in the product/process development of bioactive food ingredients. In addition to hands-on experience with chromatography, ion exchange, membrane separation, or thermal concentration and drying techniques. The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret experimental data to optimize processing parameters and ensure the highest standards of hygienic processing and efficacy.


Diversity Statement
At dsm-firmenich, being a force for good is not optional. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion is a shared responsibility woven into our daily work, benefiting to our People, Customers & Communities and driving business value. Equal access to opportunities is a given, belonging is a shared feeling, authenticity is celebrated.


Key Responsibilities

• Accurately plan, prepare, and carry out downstream processing experiments, involving a series of filtration techniques, chromatography, and spray drying, both in laboratory and pilot-scale environments of up to 50 liters;
• Assist in process development by optimizing downstream process parameters through the execution of scaled-down experiments;
• Aid product development by replicating technical and food-grade product samples at laboratory and pilot scales;
• Plan and conduct laboratory-scale experiments based on technical hypotheses, analyze the collected data, and produce comprehensive reports;
• Present findings, draw conclusions, and recommend subsequent actions;
• Maintain the protocol database [AK4]and provide support in procuring laboratory materials;
• Oversee and troubleshoot analytical equipment[AK5][AK6][AK7], ensuring their proper maintenance;
• Execute downstream processing experiments, including fermentation broth pre-treatment, chromatography, ion exchange, membrane separation, or spray drying, to produce bioactive food ingredients;
• Utilize advanced data analysis techniques to interpret chromatographic profiles, ion exchange behavior, membrane performance, and drying characteristics;
• Collaborate closely with scientist and experts to design experiments, collect data, and analyze results to optimize processing parameters and ingredient functionality;
• Develop and implement statistical process control (SPC) methodologies to monitor and improve process efficiency, yield, and product quality;
• Generate comprehensive reports summarizing experimental findings, data trends, and process improvements;
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues, applying data-driven approaches to identify root causes and implement corrective actions;
• Take lab ownership and maintain downstream processing equipment, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to safety protocols;
• Document all production activities, observations, and results in available digital tools such as lab twin, signals notebook;
• Coaching other techs.

We bring

• Sustainability Commitment: Be part of an organization where sustainability isn't just a headline but is embedded in our strategy and processes, enabling you to make a meaningful impact on the world;
• Empowered Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible work environment that empowers you to take ownership of your work, driving accountability and fostering a healthy work-life balance;
• Inspiring Innovation: Join a company with a rich history of groundbreaking scientific innovation and a future brimming with opportunities to collaboratively create with our customers;
• Nurturing Growth: Cultivate your potential in an environment that encourages and supports curiosity, fostering an open mindset for continuous personal and professional development;
• Well-Being Priority: Experience a culture that places safety and well-being at its core, caring for both your physical and mental health;
• Inclusive Community: Join barrier-free communities within our organization where every employee is equally valued and respected, regardless of their background, beliefs, or identity. Embrace the strength of diversity.

You Bring

• You possess a background in material chemistry, food technology, or bio-(chemical) engineering, typically at the Bachelor (HBO) level. Highly qualified candidates with MBO level credentials or equivalent work experience are also strongly encouraged to apply;
• 5 -7 years of experience in downstream bioprocessing, with a focus on handling fermentation broths, mechanical construction of ideal downstream processing setup, data analysis and interpretation;
• Proficiency in lab and statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab), and Microsoft Excel;
• Strong understanding of membrane separation, chromatography, ion exchange, food ingredient formulations and drying principles and related techniques.[AK8];
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail;
• Familiarity with hygienic food production to formulate food grade customer samples. experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment;
• You can work both independently and collaboratively within a team, maintaining a dedicated and adaptable mindset;
• You find fulfillment in a dynamic work environment that combines focused tasks with the ability to respond to spontaneous requests and inquiries;
• You take pride in maintaining an orderly, secure, and presentable laboratory setting;
• You are proficient in using digital tools, including lab twin, signals notebook, Excel, Python, and Power BI;
• Given the international nature of the work, your English proficiency is crucial;
• Your approach is pragmatic, solution-oriented, and characterized by practical creativity. You are hands-on and unwavering in your pursuit of high-quality results;
• You exhibit a deep passion for executing practical laboratory procedures and have a genuine love for the laboratory and pilot plant.[AK9];
• You possess a solid technical foundation and fundamental knowledge of food or biotechnology;
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with the capacity to work effectively in a fast-paced and collaborative environment;
• Given the international nature of the work, your English proficiency is crucial and French is an advance.

The application process
Interested in this position? Please apply on-line by uploading your resume in English via our career portal. For further information, please contact Martin Zwart, Senior Talent Acquisition Business Partner (martin.zwart@dsm-firmenich.com).


Equal Opportunities Commitment
dsm-firmenich is fully dedicated to inclusion because when people feel engaged and empowered, their creativity and innovation drives unprecedented progress. We aim to build a workplace where opportunity really is equal, so everyone can thrive. We do not discriminate, there’s a place for everyone at dsm-firmenich.
dsm-firmenich is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. dsm-firmenich people are as diverse as our customers. For us that includes a commitment to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.


We are committed to providing reasonable support for disabled applicants in our recruiting process. Should you need assistance, and are comfortable to share this, please let us know.


As innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients, flavors, and fragrances for the world’s growing population to thrive. With our comprehensive range of solutions, with natural and renewable ingredients and renowned science and technology capabilities, we work to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. dsm-firmenich is a Swiss-Dutch company, listed on the Euronext Amsterdam, with operations in almost 60 countries and revenues of more than €12 billion. With a diverse, worldwide team of nearly 30,000 employees, we bring progress to life™ every day, everywhere, for billions of people.
www.dsm-firmenich.com


Agency Statement
Please note this is a direct search led by dsm-firmenich. We only accept applications from candidates, not from agencies nor subject to agency’s fees, percentages or similar.