Senior Manager, Pilot

Job Title: Sr. Manager, Pilot

Location: Toulouse

Department: Pilot, P&PD

Reports To: Director Process Science Development

About Us: this is who we are

At Just Evotec Biologics, we believe that curiosity is the spark that drives innovation and success. As a forward-thinking team, we thrive on challenging the status quo, learning from each other, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. We're on a mission to create a place where curiosity isn't just encouraged—it's celebrated.

Are you someone who asks questions, seeks answers, and isn't afraid to go deeper? #BeCUREious with us and see where your curiosity can take you

The Role: Your challenge …in our journey

We're looking for a passionate and curious Sr. Manager, Pilot to join our team. If you're excited by new challenges, solving complex problems, and learning every step of the way, you might just be the perfect fit. In this role, you'll have the opportunity to drive impactful projects, collaborate with bright minds, and explore uncharted territories.

As a Sr. Manager, Pilot at Just Evotec Biologics, you'll have the freedom to ask the hard questions, think outside the box, and find creative solutions that push us forward. It's a role where your curiosity will fuel both your personal growth and the success of the team.

What You'll Do:

• Leading a multidisciplinary team responsible for operating and developing pilot-scale upstream (bioreactor) and downstream (purification) unit operations, including the execution of 50 L scale engineering and material generation batches bridging process development and cGMP manufacturing.
• Translating laboratory-scale process parameters into scalable pilot operations, ensuring robustness, reproducibility, and readiness for technology transfer to manufacturing.
• Collaborating with upstream, downstream, analytical, and manufacturing teams to design and execute pilot-scale studies supporting process characterization, equipment qualification, and material generation for toxicology and stability studies.
• Overseeing daily pilot plant operations, including scheduling, facility readiness, documentation, and compliance with applicable safety and quality standards.
• Driving the implementation and optimization of intensified and continuous bioprocesses at pilot scale, leveraging single-use technologies and process automation to streamline operations and data management.
• Serving as a key technical resource and subject matter expert for scale-up principles, process control strategies, and tech transfer documentation to cGMP manufacturing.
• Ensuring proper documentation of process data, deviations, and batch records; authoring and reviewing SOPs, protocols, and technical reports.
• Training, mentoring, and supervising technical staff, ensuring adherence to best practices in pilot-scale operations and fostering a culture of safety and scientific excellence.
• Engaging with equipment vendors and engineering teams for the design, selection, and troubleshooting of pilot-scale bioprocess equipment.
• Clearly and effectively communicating pilot study objectives, results, and recommendations to internal project teams, management, and external partners.
• Supporting the development and implementation of digital data capture and analysis workflows to improve process understanding and decision-making.
• Participating in cross-functional project teams to plan and deliver pilot-scale activities aligned with development timelines and regulatory milestones.

Who You Are:

• Holder of a Master's degree in Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field with 15+ years of experience, or with 10+ years of experience in bioprocess development, scale-up, or pilot plant operations.
• Fluent in English (mandatory). French proficiency is a plus.
• Able to prove extensive hands-on experience in pilot-scale bioreactor operations (10–200 L) and downstream purification systems (chromatography and filtration).
• With a strong understanding of scale-up principles, process control, and data interpretation for both upstream and downstream processes.
• Experienced in supporting engineering batches, material generation, and technology transfer to cGMP manufacturing.
• Able to prove ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, manage pilot facilities, and coordinate cross-functional projects.
• Experienced in process intensification and continuous bioprocessing is highly desirable.
• Knowledgeable of single-use technologies, automation platforms, and digital data capture systems.
• Having a strong collaboration and communication skills with experience interfacing with development, manufacturing, and engineering teams.
• Experienced in biosimilar or biologics development programs is an advantage.
• Experienced in working in or supporting a cGMP or cleanroom environment.
• Familiar with process and equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Able to understand process safety and risk assessment principles in pilot-scale bioprocessing.

Pluses

• General understanding of cell culture, protein chemistry, and bioprocess engineering fundamentals.

Why Join Us:

• Growth Opportunities: We're a company that believes in continuous learning and development. Whether it's professional courses, mentorship, or new projects, we'll help you grow.
• Flexible Work Environment: We offer flexible work options to help you balance your professional and personal life.
• Inclusive Culture: We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone's voice is valued, and curiosity is encouraged.
• Innovative Projects: You'll have the chance to work on groundbreaking initiatives and cutting-edge technology in an atmosphere where your curiosity is the key to success.
• A Place for Big Ideas: We don't just talk about thinking outside the box—we throw the box away. If you've got ideas, we want to hear them.

Are You Still Curious?

If you've read this far, then chances are you've got a curious mind—just like us. So, what are you waiting for? Take the leap and apply today. We can't wait to see where your curiosity leads you—and how it will shape the future of Just Evotec Biologics.

Let your curiosity guide your career—#BeCUREious and explore the endless possibilities at Just Evotec Biologics

FR : Dans le cadre de sa politique Diversité, Evotec étudie, à compétences égales, toutes les candidatures dont celles des personnes en situation de handicap.

ENG : In the frame of our Diversity policy, Evotec considers, with equal competences, all applications including people with disabilities.