Pilot plant lead

Photanol is a pioneering biotech company based in Amsterdam, with a pilot plant located in Chemport Delfzijl. We develop sustainable production processes using cyanobacteria to convert CO₂ into valuable chemicals. Our team is driven by innovation, precision, and collaboration to shape the future of green chemistry.

Location: Farmsum, The Netherlands

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Department: Pilot Operations
Employment Type: Full-time

As a Pilot Plant Lead, you will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of our pilot plant, translating lab-scale processes into scalable, robust systems. You will work closely with our R&D, engineering, and operations teams to ensure safe, efficient, and data-driven execution of pilot campaigns. This role is critical in bridging the gap between research and commercial deployment.

• Lead the operation and maintenance of the pilot plant, ensuring safety, compliance, and performance.
• Develop and execute experimental plans to validate process parameters and scale-up strategies.
• Monitor and analyze process data, troubleshoot issues, and report findings.
• Supervise pilot operators and interns.
• Represent the contact with Chemport Delfzijl, suppliers and industry partners.
• Ensure documentation, SOPs, and safety protocols are up to date and followed.
• Responsible person for GMO-related activities, including the documentation involved with licensing.

• MSc in Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in pilot plant operations, preferably using photobioreactors.
• Hands-on and pro-active: you will be expected to be at the pilot yourself daily and fix things quickly and practically.
• Strong understanding of bioprocessing, fluid handling, food (processing) technology, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Experience with process optimization, troubleshooting, and data analysis.
• Ability to bridge knowledge between R&D, engineering, and operations by combining critical thinking, technical expertise, effective communication, and a pragmatic approach.
• Fluent in English and preferably Dutch.

Please send your cover letter and resume to jobs@photanol.com. The position is directly available, and we review applications on a rolling basis. We look forward to hearing from you!

Photanol B.V.

www.photanol.com