Director of Bioengineering (Recombia)

Lesaffre North America • Brisbane, CA

8h • $190,000 - $280,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Recombia Biosciences, now part of the Lesaffre Group, is seeking a Director of Bioengineering to lead technical strategy and innovation. This role involves overseeing platform development, product development, and lab operations, guiding a team of scientists through the entire project lifecycle from R&D to industrialization. The Director will collaborate with various internal teams and external partners to ensure high performance and accelerate biomanufacturing progress. The position requires visionary leadership to translate scientific concepts into actionable strategies and drive Recombia's position as a leader in biomanufacturing.

Requirements

• PhD degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemical engineering, chemistry, bioengineering).
• 15+ years of industry research experience with demonstrated impact through publications and/or patents.
• Deep expertise in metabolic engineering of yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Yarrowia lipolytica,) with hands-on experience engineering other organisms, and a proven track record of translating research into industrialized products.
• Proven ability to navigate the full development lifecycle from concept through commercialization.
• Extensive experience leading cross-functional, multi-level teams.
• Strong strategic planning capabilities with the ability to align research initiatives with business objectives.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to resolve conflicts and build consensus.
• Solid understanding of laboratory operations and scientific research processes.
• Proficient / familiarity in statistical analysis with experience in common tools such as MS Excel, Power BI, and/or JMP.
• Proficient in LIMS systems such as Benchling.
• Passion for biotech innovation, with a “startup mentality” tempered by industrial experience.
• Experience in biomanufacturing and research, development and innovation environment.
• Ability to travel 10-15% of the time within North America and occasionally internationally.

Nice To Haves

• Background in food manufacturing, health and wellness, flavor, and/or specialty chemical industries is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate an unwavering commitment to Lesaffre's safety-first culture by strictly following all safety protocols and participating in required safety programs.
• Lead, mentor, and support a team of scientists, providing technical guidance, career development, and performance feedback.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Coach and develop employees.
• Strengthen collaboration between the San Francisco team, LIST Bioengineering teams, and other Centers of Excellence (CoEs).
• Work closely with Business Unit (BU) representatives, quality/regulatory/legal teams, and external research partners (e.g., CROs).
• Ensure seamless communication and alignment across internal and external stakeholders.
• Evaluate new project opportunities and conduct technical feasibility assessments.
• Develop and execute technical plans, including risk analysis and resource allocation.
• Provide hands-on technical mentorship to the team, ensuring high-quality execution and troubleshooting.
• Monitor project progress, ensuring timely delivery of technical milestones.
• Drive collaborations with Business Units (BUs) and external customers to identify new project opportunities.
• Explore and pursue new business opportunities through conferences, customer meetings, and industry engagements.
• Partner with the Sr. Vice President of Bioengineering and Biofoundry leaders to improve operational efficiency and address gaps.
• Support annual budget planning and strategic initiatives for Recombia.
• Oversee lab operations, including procurement, safety, and equipment maintenance.
• Lead or support company events (e.g., workshops, symposiums, site visits).
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits starting on day one, including health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with employer match.
• 11 paid holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree