Founding Plant Manager

About the role

MicroHarvest is building its first industrial‑scale bioprocessing plant at Leuna Chemical Park. As the Founding Plant Manager you will lead the investment project from engineering and procurement through construction and commissioning, then transition to running the plant and shaping its long‑term operations.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee basic and detailed engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning of the new production facility.
• Coordinate external contractors and site infrastructure, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Recruit, onboard, and train the initial plant operations team.
• Develop and implement SOPs, safety protocols, and compliance procedures for new processes.
• Assume full Plant Manager duties to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient operations.
• Continuously improve production processes to maximize performance, quality, and yield.
• Embed MicroHarvest’s entrepreneurial and collaborative culture throughout the site.

Required profile

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in chemical, biotech or process manufacturing in a responsible role.
• Proven track record delivering large‑scale investment projects.
• Fluent in English and German.
• Strong motivation for sustainability and fast‑growing biotech environments.

Required skills

• Process optimization
• Troubleshooting
• Process safety
• ESHQ (environment, safety, health, quality) management

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape the future of sustainable protein production.
• Direct impact on a high‑visibility, multi‑million‑euro project.
• Collaboration with founders, engineering partners, and an experienced biotech team.
• International, diverse startup culture that values curiosity and teamwork.