Manufacturing Lead Operator

Job Summary

BioNTech Rwanda is hiring a full-time Manufacturing Lead Operator in Kigali. The role leads operator teams in modular mRNA BioNTainer facilities, ensuring cGMP compliance, equipment setup/cleaning, batch record completion, and operator training. Applicants require a Bachelor's degree in Biotech, Chemistry, or Pharmacy and 2+ years of cGMP industry experience.

Key Roles & Operational Responsibilities

1. Production Execution & Equipment Operation

• Operational Oversight: Perform and oversee daily manufacturing processes under minimal supervision, ensuring strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and production schedules.
• Equipment Management: Set up, operate, clean, and troubleshoot pharmaceutical equipment used in producing intermediate or finished mRNA products.
• Facility Maintenance: Maintain a safe, compliant, and clean working environment within modular BioNTainer manufacturing units.

2. cGMP Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Documentation & Batch Records: Accurately complete and review batch execution records, logbooks, and production transactions to guarantee full cGMP compliance.
• Audit & Deviation Support: Participate in internal quality audits and support investigations, documentation, and root-cause analysis for manufacturing deviations.
• Quality Review: Assist in reviewing manufacturing documentation to ensure finished products meet stringent safety and quality specifications.

3. Team Leadership, Training & Technical Guidance

• Technical Support: Provide hands-on technical guidance and troubleshooting support to manufacturing operators during daily shifts.
• Qualified Trainer Role: Lead the formal training, qualification, and demonstration of manufacturing processes for associate operators.
• Performance Reporting: Monitor, evaluate, and report team performance and operational throughput to manufacturing leadership.

Foundational Capabilities & Prerequisites

Required Qualifications & Competencies

• Academic Baseline: Earned Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Industry Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of practical experience in a chemical, pharmaceutical, or cGMP-compliant production facility.
• Technical & Soft Skills:
  • In-depth knowledge of Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), SOPs, and batch execution systems.
  • Demonstrated capability to operate, clean, and troubleshoot pharmaceutical processing equipment.
  • Strong qualitative/quantitative analytical skills and presentation capabilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.
  • Self-directed mindset with the ability to work independently and lead teams under minimal supervision.

Why Join #TeamBioNTech?

• Pioneering Science: Be part of revolutionary mRNA manufacturing in Africa using state-of-the-art, modular BioNTainer facilities.
• Global Impact: Help build regional pharmaceutical manufacturing networks designed to improve global health equity and combat infectious diseases and cancer.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy competitive remuneration, health and wellness benefits, and continuous professional growth opportunities within an inclusive, equal-opportunity workplace.

Skills Required:

• Chemistry / Chemical / Engineering
• Health / Medical