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Full-Time

Senior Fermentation Operations Leader

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

MycoWorks

MycoWorks

201-500 employees

Produces sustainable mycelium-based leather alternative

Food & Agriculture
Hardware
Energy
Social Impact
Biotechnology
Consumer Goods

Senior, Expert

Spartanburg, SC, USA

Category
Biology Lab & Research
Biology & Biotech
Requirements
  • 5-10 years of experience in industrial fungal operations, with a strong understanding of fungal mycology.
  • Must have manufacturing experience, working closely with Plant Operations teams.
  • Proven expertise in environmental monitoring, aseptic practices, and cleaning & sanitization protocols.
  • Experience in data monitoring and reporting, with the ability to analyze data and implement improvements.
  • Technical proficiency in laboratory equipment and bioprocessing technologies.
  • Knowledge of bioreactor operations and fermentation processes.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop a team.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
Responsibilities
  • Lead the Biological Management function, focusing on continuous improvement in biological processes.
  • Ensure the biological health of the plant by monitoring environmental conditions and implementing aseptic practices.
  • Oversee cleaning and sanitization protocols to maintain a sterile production environment.
  • Develop and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for biological operations.
  • Develop and implement data monitoring and reporting systems to track biological performance and identify areas for improvement.
  • Prepare regular reports on biological health and present findings to plant management and other stakeholders.
  • Coordinate with the Operations Leader to integrate biological management practices with overall plant operations.
  • Collaborate with the Operations Leader and other department leads to integrate biological management practices with overall plant operations including the development of validation protocols.
  • Coordinate training programs for new hires and ongoing education for existing staff on best practices in fungal mycology and aseptic techniques.
  • Manage and mentor team members, providing guidance and support to ensure high performance and professional growth.
  • Conduct regular inspections and audits of biological systems to ensure compliance with internal and external standards.
  • Investigate and resolve any biological issues that arise, implementing corrective actions as needed.

MycoWorks produces a leather alternative called Reishi™, made from mycelium, which is a part of fungus. This material is designed to be sustainable and is appealing to fashion brands and designers seeking eco-friendly options. Reishi™ has already been used in luxury products, such as handbags and hats. The company has recently expanded by opening a large facility in South Carolina, which is the first commercial-scale plant for Fine Mycelium™, allowing them to increase production to meet rising demand. MycoWorks stands out from competitors by focusing specifically on mycelium-based materials, which offer both sustainability and performance. The goal of MycoWorks is to capture a significant share of the growing leather goods market by providing a viable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather.

Company Stage

Series C

Total Funding

$187.2M

Headquarters

Emeryville, California

Founded

2013

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

1%

1 year growth

8%

2 year growth

63%
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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • The opening of a 136,000 square foot facility in South Carolina positions MycoWorks to significantly scale up production and meet growing demand.
  • Collaborations with high-profile brands and designers, such as Cadillac and Deadwood Studios, enhance MycoWorks' visibility and market credibility.
  • The appointment of experienced luxury sector professionals like Ginevra Boralevi to the leadership team strengthens the company's strategic direction and brand positioning.

What critics are saying

  • The high cost of scaling production facilities could strain financial resources and impact profitability.
  • Dependence on luxury markets may limit broader adoption and make the company vulnerable to economic downturns affecting high-end consumer spending.

What makes MycoWorks unique

  • MycoWorks' Reishi™ is derived from mycelium, offering a unique and sustainable alternative to traditional leather, unlike many competitors who use synthetic or animal-based materials.
  • The company has established the world's first commercial-scale Fine Mycelium™ plant, showcasing its commitment to scaling production and meeting market demand.
  • Strategic partnerships with luxury brands like Hermès and Ligne Roset highlight MycoWorks' penetration into high-end markets, setting it apart from other sustainable material startups.