Overview
Plant Process Engineer – Contract Role
Location: Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Hourly Rate: CHF 80–85
Sector: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
We are currently seeking an experienced Plant Process Engineer to support manufacturing and engineering operations at a leading pharmaceutical production site in Neuchâtel. This is a 12-month contract role, offering the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, GMP-regulated biotech environment with high technical exposure.
Role Overview
As Plant Process Engineer, you will provide hands-on engineering expertise to support and continuously improve site operations, ensuring uninterrupted production while maintaining full compliance with cGxP, GMP, safety, and engineering standards. You will act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for assigned bulk production installations and play a key role in investigations, optimisations, equipment upgrades, and site projects.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as primary technical SME for assigned production equipment and systems
* Provide engineering support for investigations, recurring issues, modifications, and continuous improvement initiatives
* Lead and/or support design, installation, commissioning, and qualification activities
* Ensure equipment and systems remain fit for use; proactively identify risks and improvement opportunities
* Coordinate and organise corrective actions, modifications, and upgrades
* Ensure compliance with cGMP, GEP, SUVA/ASIT, and internal engineering standards
* Support site and cross-functional projects of varying complexity
* Participate as system expert in internal and external audits
* Ensure all activities meet health, safety, and environmental requirements
Technical Scope
You will work primarily within Bulk Production areas, supporting equipment and systems including:
* Bioreactors
* Chromatography systems
* Filtration systems (including UF/DF and filter testing)
* Process piping and instrumentation
* CIP and SIP systems
* Process vessels and storage tanks
* Autoclaves
Project-Specific Responsibilities (NFA Project)
* Support protocol execution and documentation review
* Manage and follow up on punch lists
* Troubleshoot technical and commissioning issues
Education & Experience
* Engineering degree (BSc, MSc, or equivalent) in Biotechnology, Chemistry, Food Processing, or Mechanical Engineering
* 7+ years’ experience in Pharma/Biotech (Process Engineering, Plant Engineering, or Manufacturing)
* Strong experience with installation, commissioning, and validation of pharmaceutical process equipment
* Experience with automation systems (Siemens and/or Allen Bradley) is a strong advantage
* Maintenance and utilities experience is considered an asset
Knowledge & Skills
* Strong knowledge of GEP, cGxP, FDA, ISPE, ASTM 2500, ASME BPE standards
* Fluent in English and French (spoken and written); German is a plus
* Strong problem-solving and technical learning capability
* Team-oriented, action-driven, and comfortable in a hands-on, fast-paced environment
* Proficient with MS Office and MS Project
What’s on Offer
* Competitive CHF 80–85/hour contract rate
* 12-month contract with potential extension
* High-impact role within a regulated, cutting-edge biotech facility
* Dynamic, collaborative engineering environment
Please reach out to Adrien Guimard or Rob Angrave at CK QLS for more information +41 (0) 444 990 468. Please note all applicants must have a valid Swiss work permit or hold EU citizenship.
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