Lead Fermentation Operator

Novonesis • West Allis, WI

3d • $25 - $32 • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Fermentation Operator is a hands-on operational and people-leadership role within a 24/7 manufacturing operation in West Allis. The role coordinates work across the shift, coaches and supports team performance, and helps ensure safe operations, high-quality output, and production running efficiently and on schedule. The position supports fermentation and downstream processes in a fast-paced, regulated manufacturing environment with a safety-first and quality-always culture.

The schedule follows a 7-on/7-off rotation, with 10-hour weekday shifts and 12-hour weekend shifts; the specific assignment is discussed during interviews. The factory environment may be wet, loud, dusty, or extremely cold (down to -55°C), and may include clean-room conditions. Work involves prolonged standing and walking, lifting up to 50 pounds, and physical tasks such as scooping, kneeling, and working around machinery. Strict policies prohibit jewelry, fragrance, and false nails or lashes; cell phones are stored in lockers.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong safety mindset and comfort working in a regulated manufacturing environment with strict sanitation and documentation requirements.
• Technical aptitude, including the ability to read detailed production journals, follow procedures, and perform basic metric math involving weights and volumes.
• Basic computer skills for navigating internal systems.
• Ability to communicate clearly, provide feedback, and support team performance on a night shift.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in regulated industries such as food, biotech, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing.
• Forklift or pallet walker experience; on-site training is provided if needed.
• Experience or interest in SAP or similar systems.
• Interest in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or helping train and develop others.
• Curiosity and motivation to deeply understand processes, not just execute tasks.

Responsibilities

• Lead by example with a safety-first, quality-always mindset and set clear expectations for the team.
• Identify, document, and help resolve process non-conformances, equipment failures, and inventory discrepancies using root-cause thinking and lean principles.
• Schedule and assign daily tasks, set priorities, and evaluate results in collaboration with supervisors and planning partners.
• Maintain accurate production, inventory, and process records using electronic MRP systems and document management tools.
• Support audits, training activities, new product trials, and continuous improvement initiatives across fermentation and downstream processes.
• Coordinate, coach, and provide performance support across the shift.

Benefits

• 401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution.
• At least 3 weeks of vacation, 12 holidays, and 2 weeks of Wellness Time.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Healthcare savings account option.
• Employee assistance program.
• Parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Structured training, cross-functional support, and opportunities to grow technical and leadership skills.
• All benefits begin on the first day.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED