Director, Fermentation & Utilities – Belvidere, NJ

The Director, Fermentation & Utilities role at dsm‑firmenich in Belvidere, Warren County leads the site’s fermentation operations—including the pilot plant—and oversees all utility systems that support production.

About the Role

This full‑time position is a key part of the Belvidere production leadership team, responsible for ensuring reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of the fermentation plant and associated utilities. The role partners with engineering, maintenance, quality, and supply chain groups to meet customer demand while maintaining the highest safety and environmental standards.

What You'll Do

• Direct daily activities of the fermentation and utilities departments, including shift scheduling, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage the pilot plant operations, ensuring scale‑up experiments are executed safely and generate valuable data for process development.
• Oversee site utilities such as steam, compressed air, chilled water, electricity, and HVAC systems to guarantee uninterrupted production.
• Develop and manage budgets, forecast resource needs, and optimize utility consumption to reduce operating costs.
• Ensure compliance with cGMP, FDA, OSHA, and internal safety regulations; lead incident investigations and corrective actions.
• Mentor and develop a multidisciplinary team of engineers, technicians, and operators, fostering a culture of accountability and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with project managers on capital projects, utility upgrades, and plant expansions, providing technical guidance and operational readiness.
• Drive data‑based decision making by establishing KPIs, conducting root‑cause analysis, and implementing corrective and preventive actions.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in fermentation or bioprocess manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Proven expertise in utility systems management (steam, water, electricity, HVAC) within a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in cGMP, HACCP, ISO standards, and safety protocols; experience leading audits and regulatory inspections.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams, develop talent, and drive operational excellence initiatives.
• Excellent analytical skills, proficiency with process data historians, SCADA, and standard office software.
• Effective communicator who can influence stakeholders at all levels and translate technical concepts into clear business insights.
• Willingness to be on‑site in Belvidere, NJ, and to respond to operational needs outside regular hours when required.

About dsm-firmenich

dsm‑firmenich is a global leader in nutrition, health, and beauty, combining scientific innovation with sustainable practices to create ingredients that improve everyday life. The Belvidere site specializes in fermentation‑based products that serve customers worldwide, supported by a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

How to Apply

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.