Plant Process Engineer
Plant Process Engineer – Contract (12 Months) 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 :
BioreactorsChromatography systemsFiltration systems (including UF / DF and filter testing)Process piping and instrumentationCIP and SIP systemsProcess vessels and storage tanksAutoclavesProject-Specific Responsibilities (NFA Project) :
Support protocol execution and documentation reviewManage and follow up on punch listsTroubleshoot technical and commissioning issuesEducation & Experience :
Engineering degree (BSc, MSc, or equivalent) in Biotechnology, Chemistry, Food Processing, or Mechanical Engineering7+ years’ experience in Pharma / Biotech (Process Engineering, Plant Engineering, or Manufacturing)Strong experience with installation, commissioning, and validation of pharmaceutical process equipmentExperience with automation systems (Siemens and / or Allen Bradley) is a strong advantageMaintenance and utilities experience is considered an assetKnowledge & Skills :
Strong knowledge of GEP, cGxP, FDA, ISPE, ASTM 2500, ASME BPE standardsFluent in English and French (spoken and written); German is a plusStrong problem-solving and technical learning capabilityTeam-oriented, action-driven, and comfortable in a hands-on, fast-paced environmentProficient with MS Office and MS ProjectWhat’s on Offer :
Competitive CHF 80–85 / hour contract rate12-month contract with potential extensionHigh-impact role within a regulated, cutting-edge biotech facilityDynamic, collaborative engineering environmentPlease 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.