CIP/SIP Supervisor – Steam-Based Cleaning Systems

The CIP/SIP Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the execution and performance of Clean-in-Place (CIP) and Steam-in-Place (SIP) processes to ensure reliable cleaning and sterilization of process systems and equipment. This mid-level supervisory role focuses on managing cleaning operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., FDA, GMP, 3A), supervising cleaning technicians, and collaborating with quality and maintenance teams to troubleshoot and improve process hygiene.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Oversight

• Lead and monitor CIP/SIP operations across multiple process lines, tanks, vessels, and piping systems.

• Ensure systems meet all time, temperature, flow rate, and pressure specifications for validated cleaning and sterilization.

• Support production readiness by coordinating cleaning cycles with manufacturing and scheduling teams.

2. Supervision and Team Leadership

• Supervise a team of CIP/SIP operators and sanitation technicians across multiple shifts.

• Provide training on SOPs, safety protocols, chemical handling, and steam sterilization techniques.

• Enforce high hygiene standards and sanitation best practices throughout the production environment.

3. Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure all CIP and SIP activities are performed in accordance with GMP, FDA, USDA, or EU regulations as applicable.

• Review and approve cleaning records, batch documentation, and deviation reports.

• Support internal and external audits and contribute to CAPA investigations where cleaning/sterility may be a root cause.

4. Troubleshooting and Optimization

• Lead root cause analysis of failed cleaning or SIP cycles, working with maintenance and engineering teams to resolve issues.

• Identify areas for process optimization to improve efficiency, reduce chemical/steam usage, and increase reliability.

• Monitor system performance using SCADA, BMS, or PLC interfaces and intervene when anomalies are detected.

5. System Integrity and Validation Support

• Collaborate with quality and validation teams to support cleaning validation, periodic re-validation, and system mapping.

• Ensure control points (e.g., condensate drains, temperature sensors, PRVs) are calibrated and functioning.

• Support commissioning and qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) of new CIP/SIP systems.

Focus Areas:

• Automated CIP/SIP systems and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)

• Steam distribution, condensate return, and sterilization protocols

• Cleaning validation and microbial risk mitigation

• Water-for-injection (WFI), purified water (PW), and clean steam interfaces

• GMP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, 3A Sanitary Standards, EHEDG principles

• SCADA/BMS interfaces and process trend monitoring

Qualifications:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, Food Technology, or a related field

• 5–7 years of experience in CIP/SIP operations, preferably in GMP-regulated or hygienic manufacturing environments

• Experience supervising sanitation or clean utility operations

• Strong working knowledge of hygienic design, sanitary process piping, and cleaning chemistry

• Familiar with cleaning validation protocols and aseptic practices

Preferred Certifications:

• Certified CIP Technician or Cleaning Validation Professional (if available)

• OSHA 30-Hour General Industry

• GMP Training Certification

• Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) or PCQI Certification

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of automated cleaning and steam sterilization cycles

• Ability to interpret P&IDs, SOPs, and validation documents

• Excellent troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills

• Strong leadership and communication skills

• Proficiency in documentation and digital logbook systems