Lead Operator- Fermentation

Novonesis

  • Milwaukee, WI West Allis, WI
  • $25.00-28.00 per hour
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 21 days ago
Are you ready for a new beginning?We need your talent, knowledge and dedication to better our world with biology.Our purpose points the wayIn Novonesis, we know that solutions rooted in biology can help solve humanity’s biggest challenges. Since we began more than a century ago, this has been our guide. It’s how we've gotten so far. And it’s how we'll impact the future. Now, more than ever, the world needs change. And with biosolutions, the possibilities for transformation are endless.We’re here to better our world with biology.Join us as our new Lead Operator for FermentationAs a Lead Operator, you will play a key role in guiding and inspiring a dynamic production team. You’ll oversee daily operations, ensure quality and safety standards, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead with impact, collaborate cross-functionally, and contribute to the success of a growing organization. This position will work a 7 on 7 off schedule with hours of 1pm-11pm.In this role you'll make an impact by:Demonstrating a safety first, quality always mindset and expect the same from others.Identifying and document process non-conformances and equipment failures while working collaboratively to mitigate risk, trouble shoot and determine root causes and action plans.Managing inventory processes, including cycle counts and physical inventory.Utilizing electronic MRP systems to maintain accurate inventory and process records.Maintaining and update procedures, process documents, and forms in the document management system.Participating in team meetings and champion safety initiatives.Taking accountability for team performance by setting clear expectations, providing feedback, and professionally handling difficult conversations to support team growth and development.Collaborating with supervisors on performance assessments and provide constructive coaching.Scheduling and assign tasks, set priorities, and evaluate results.Working with Planning to meet customer demands and optimize capacity planning.Promoting continuous improvement by standardizing processes and implementing lean principles.Investigating inventory discrepancies and manage sample and discard records.Facilitating employee training and create robust training materials.Acting as a key contributor to new product development and customer trials.Supporting quality and compliance efforts during internal and external audits.Leading by example, effectively supporting Operators and Supervisors as needed.Maintaining valid certifications and training compliance for duties performed by self and team.Working ConditionsThis role involves both office tasks and hands-on production work in a controlled manufacturing environment with temperatures ranging from 55-65°F, exposure to wet, humid, dusty, and loud conditions, moving machinery, airborne particles, and caustic chemicals. It requires working in ultra-cold freezer conditions as low as -55°F for short durations with specialized protective gear. PPE, including coveralls, dust masks, hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes, must be worn as required. The position involves frequent standing, bending, lifting (up to 55 lbs. unassisted, occasionally 100 lbs. assisted), and working in confined spaces with airlock protocols. Flexibility for weekend shifts, extended hours, and rotating between first, second, and third shifts is required.Physical DemandsWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, talk, hear, lift and/or move materials or equipment up to 55 lbs., and use hands to finger, handle objects, tools or controls. Repetitive bending and lifting of items to stack or dump is also required. Occasionally required to lift up to 100Location: West Allis, On-SiteApplication deadline: 9/5/25Expected salary range: $25- $28 an hour based on experienceBenefits you will enjoy:
  • 401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution
  • Minimum of 3 weeks of vacation plus 12 holidays and 2 weeks of Wellness Time
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Life insurance
  • Healthcare savings account option
  • Employee assistance program
  • Parental leave
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • All benefits begin on your first day
Could our purpose be yours? Then apply today!At Novonesis we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants. We recommend you not to attach a cover letter to your application. Instead, please include a few sentences in your resume/CV about why you are applying. To ensure a fair recruitment process, please refrain from adding a photo in your resume/CV.Novonesis is dedicated to fostering a unique community by embracing and respecting differences. We make all employment decisions based on business needs, ensuring that every individual can thrive, regardless of identity or background such as ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.Want to learn more?
Learn more about Novonesis, our purpose, and your career opportunities atNot the right fit for you?
Even if this job isn't the right fit for you, perhaps you know someone who might find it interesting. If so, please feel free to share the job link and encourage them to apply. Thank you for your referral! Please check out our other open positions. The right fit for you could just be a few clicks away.Stay alert: Avoid recruitment scams
At Novonesis, we are committed to maintaining a safe and transparent recruitment process. Please be aware of potential scams targeting job seekers and take note of the following:
  • Novonesis will never ask for sensitive personal information, such as bank account details, Social Security numbers, or passwords, at any stage of the hiring process.
  • Novonesis does not make employment offers without conducting interviews with candidates.
If you receive suspicious communication claiming to be from Novonesis, please do not share any personal or financial information. We encourage you to verify the legitimacy of the message by contacting us directly through our official channels.

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