Graduate Production Process Engineer
WHCLab Group · Newcastle, Co. Wicklow · Full-time, on site, shift-based
About WHCLab Group
WHCLab Group is a biotechnology company built around fermentation and precision fermentation. From brewing and distilling to enzyme development, animal and human health solutions, biotechnology ingredients, contract fermentation and drying, we cover the full spectrum of what fermentation can do. Our mission is simple: push innovation and manufacturing excellence forward across the biotechnology and fermentation sectors.
We're now looking for a Graduate Production Process Engineer to join our Wicklow site and grow into a role with real ownership of process performance.
Why this role is different
Most graduate engineering roles put you in one corner of one process. This one doesn't. You'll work across the lab, fermentation, drying, packaging and QC — the full journey from strain to finished product. You'll get broad technical exposure from day one, direct access to senior leadership, and the chance to see your decisions play out end to end.
What you'll do
- Support and, over time, lead a team of production operators
- Champion a Zero Harm safety culture and uphold EHS standards without compromise
- Investigate deviations, run trials and contribute to measurable process improvements
- Collaborate closely with lab, QC, engineering and commercial teams
- Work a shift-based pattern, including nights
- Travel occasionally as the role requires
What you'll bring
- A third-level degree in chemical, process, biochemical, biotech, food or a related engineering discipline
- A strong grasp of engineering fundamentals and an appetite to apply them in a live production environment
- Solid analytical skills and confidence working with data in Excel
- Sharp attention to detail; in fermentation, small variables become big problems
- Initiative, energy and a willingness to step up and own a decision
- Flexibility when the process demands it, and a team-first attitude
Industrial placement or internship experience in fermentation, brewing, distilling, food or pharma is a bonus, not a requirement.
What we offer
- Competitive graduate salary, reviewed annually
- Shift premium
- Additional days off built into the shift pattern
- Structured training, mentoring and professional development
- Broad technical scope and direct access to senior leadership
- A team you'll actually like, regular lunches, brunches, and a genuinely sociable culture
- 24 Days Holidays
Please note: this role is fully on site in Newcastle, Co. Wicklow, and full-time access to a vehicle is required.
Pay: €32,000.00-€38,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
