Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Hydrolysis Technician

🎯 Role Definition

A Hydrolysis Technician is a cornerstone of the modern bioprocessing and chemical manufacturing industry. This hands-on role is responsible for executing the critical process of hydrolysis, where complex compounds are broken down into simpler, more valuable substances using water and other reagents. Working at the intersection of science and production, you will operate and maintain sophisticated equipment, follow precise protocols, and ensure the entire process runs safely, efficiently, and in strict compliance with quality standards. Your meticulous work directly impacts the creation of biofuels, pharmaceuticals, food ingredients, and other innovative products, making this a vital position for any science-driven organization.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Recent Graduate with a degree in a relevant scientific field
Laboratory Assistant or Lab Technician
Chemical Operator Trainee or Manufacturing Associate

Advancement To:

Senior Hydrolysis Technician or Lead Technician
Process Supervisor or Manufacturing Team Lead
Process Development Associate or R&D Scientist

Lateral Moves:

Quality Control (QC) Analyst / Technician
Fermentation or Upstream Process Technician
Downstream Purification Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Expertly operate, monitor, and troubleshoot complex hydrolysis reactors, centrifuges, filtration skids, and associated bioprocessing equipment according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Accurately weigh, measure, and prepare chemical solutions, buffers, and growth media with meticulous attention to detail and adherence to precise formulations.
Conduct routine in-process sampling at critical stages of the hydrolysis process, performing analytical tests such as pH, temperature, concentration, and density measurements to ensure process parameters are within specification.
Diligently maintain comprehensive and error-free batch records, equipment logs, and operational data sheets in real-time, ensuring full cGMP compliance and data integrity.
Execute Clean-In-Place (CIP) and Sterilize-In-Place (SIP) procedures for all process equipment, verifying cleaning effectiveness through visual inspection and analytical testing.
Uphold the highest standards of safety and quality by strictly adhering to all company safety protocols, cGMP/GLP regulations, and environmental health guidelines.
Serve as a first-line responder for process deviations and equipment malfunctions, applying systematic troubleshooting techniques to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
Collaborate with process engineers and quality assurance teams to review, revise, and draft Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and batch records for new and existing processes.
Monitor and manage inventory levels for critical raw materials, chemicals, and consumables, initiating procurement requests to prevent production downtime.
Conduct preventative maintenance and minor repairs on process equipment, coordinating with the maintenance department for more complex service needs.
Perform routine calibration and verification of essential laboratory and process instruments, including pH meters, conductivity meters, scales, and temperature probes.
Utilize and navigate distributed control systems (DCS) or SCADA systems to monitor process variables, control equipment, and respond to alarms in a timely manner.
Actively participate in process validation and equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) activities, executing protocols and documenting results accurately under the guidance of engineering or validation teams.
Demonstrate proficiency in the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials and chemical waste in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Perform all job functions within a controlled cleanroom environment, adhering to strict gowning procedures and aseptic techniques to prevent product contamination.
Collect and analyze process data, identifying trends, deviations, and opportunities for process optimization and efficiency improvements.
Assist in the onboarding and training of new team members, providing clear instruction and mentorship on equipment operation, safety protocols, and procedural compliance.
Meticulously prepare and assemble process equipment and components prior to production runs, and perform thorough disassembly and post-use cleaning.
Ensure all manufacturing activities, observations, and deviations are meticulously documented in a timely and compliant manner, using either electronic or paper-based systems.
Foster a collaborative environment by working closely with cross-functional teams, including Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Research & Development, to resolve issues and support project goals.

Secondary Functions

Support inventory cycle counts and material reconciliation activities to ensure accuracy.
Participate actively in site-wide safety committees and continuous improvement initiatives, such as Kaizen events or 5S projects.
Assist technical writers and process owners with the authoring and revision of operational documents, including SOPs, work instructions, and training materials.
Provide operational support during planned equipment maintenance shutdowns and the installation of new capital projects.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Deep understanding and practical application of cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices).
Hands-on experience with industrial bioprocess equipment (e.g., bioreactors, centrifuges, filtration skids, chromatography columns).
Proficiency in aseptic technique and working within controlled cleanroom environments.
Comprehensive knowledge of chemical handling, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and hazardous waste disposal procedures.
Competency in operating automated control systems like DCS, SCADA, or PLC interfaces.
Proven ability to execute Clean-In-Place (CIP) and Sterilize-In-Place (SIP) procedures.
Meticulous data logging and batch record documentation (both paper-based and electronic LIMS/MES systems).
Foundational equipment troubleshooting and preventative maintenance skills.
Familiarity with in-process analytical instrumentation (pH/conductivity meters, spectrophotometers, osmometers).
Ability to read and interpret technical documents, including Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and process flow diagrams.

Soft Skills

Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to precision and accuracy.
Strong analytical and systematic problem-solving capabilities.
Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills for reporting and collaboration.
A reliable team player with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Excellent time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.
Adaptability and a proactive approach to learning new processes and technologies.
A strong personal commitment to workplace safety and product quality.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED is required. An Associate's Degree in a scientific discipline is strongly valued.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's of Science (B.S.) degree from an accredited university.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Chemistry / Biochemistry
Biology / Microbiology
Chemical Engineering / Bioprocess Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

1-5 years of experience in a manufacturing, production, or laboratory environment.

Preferred:

Prior experience in a regulated cGMP manufacturing or pilot plant setting within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or chemical industry is highly desirable. Direct experience with large-scale process equipment operation is a significant asset.