Operating engineer Jobs in Halifax, NS

Job Description

Job Description

Salary : $70,000 - $85,000 per year

About DeNova

DeNova is a Canadian biotechnology company developing sustainable food solutions through microbial fermentation. DeNova operates a research and development pilot facility in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, equipped for fermentation process development, analytical chemistry, and microbiology research. With its first commercial facility now under construction, DeNova is entering an exciting phase of growth expanding its scientific, operational, and commercial capabilities to bring its first product,Psomi, to market and contribute to the evolution of modern protein production.

The Opportunity

DeNova is seeking a Bioprocess Engineer to support hands-on pilot plant operations and the scale-up of its microbial fermentation platform as the company moves toward commercial production. This role is designed for an engineer who enjoys working directly with equipment,and who wants to beclosely involvedin the practical challenges of translating fermentation technology from pilot-scale development into reliable, scalable manufacturing systems.

The Bioprocess Engineer will work primarily in DeNovas pilot facility,operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting upstream and downstream processing equipment while supporting process optimization and technology transfer activities. Working alongsidea dynamic team oftechnicians,scientists and engineers, this role will contribute to building robust fermentation and downstream workflows that can perform consistently at larger scales. This position is well suited to a mechanically inclined engineer who is comfortable with tools, systems, and hands-on problem solving, and who is motivated by seeing technology move from development into real-world production.

Core Responsibilities

• Pilot Plant Operations : Execute hands-on operation of bioreactor and downstream processing equipment, including setup, sterilization, sampling, seed train activities, data collection, routine troubleshooting, and support of pilot plant maintenance.
• Process Development & Optimization : Support the design, testing, optimization, and implementation of USP and DSP processes for small- and large-scale operations, including procedures compatible with high-yield, continuous fermentation systems.
• Data Management &Analysis : Collect, analyze, and interpret process data to support process validation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities.
• Scale-Up & Technology Transfer : Support scale-up of USP and DSP processes from lab to pilot scale, contribute to commercial transfer activities, and provide technical troubleshooting support with internal and external partners.
• Sustainability &Resource Efficiency : Contribute toefforts to improve resource efficiency, reduce water usage, and support cost- effectiveoperationat pilot and commercial scale.
• Cross-functional Collaboration : Collaborate with Process Development,Analytical,Manufacturing, Quality, and Business Developmentteams to align processes with product requirements and customer needs.
• Documentation, Safety & Compliance : Maintainaccuraterecords, ensure regulatory compliance, and support safety and continuous improvement initiatives in lab and pilot operations.

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Work Location & Schedule

This role is based at DeNovas research facility in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, and requires regular onsite work. Due to the nature of biological experiments and pilot plant operations, this role may occasionally require onsite work during evenings and / or weekends.

Why DeNova?

How to Apply

Pleasesubmityour resume and concise cover letter explaining why you would be a good fit for this role through the companys Bamboo HR hiring portal.Applications will be reviewed beginning in January 2026, with interviews to follow.

At DeNova, we believe diversity of thought, background, and experience fuels scientific discovery and innovation. We are committed to creating an environment where people of every ethnicity, identity, and lived experience can thrive. We actively encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and other historically underrepresented groups in science and technology.