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Cell Culture Process Development Jobs in California

Kite Pharma

Process Engineer III

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$115K - $149K/yr

Conduct cell therapy process development experiments using automated platforms. * Design and ... Perform hands-on lab-based activities in a cell culture lab, including conception of study designs ...

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Cell Culture Process Development information

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$18

$33

$48

How much do cell culture process development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cell culture process development in California is $33.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.26 and $40.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cell Culture Process Development vs Cell Culture Manufacturing Associate?

AspectCell Culture Process DevelopmentCell Culture Manufacturing Associate
Primary FocusDesigning and optimizing cell culture processes for product developmentExecuting established cell culture procedures for production
Skills & CredentialsScientific expertise, process development experience, often a degree in biotech or related fieldTechnical skills in manufacturing, GMP compliance, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory and R&D settingsManufacturing floors and production facilities
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceutical R&DBiotech, pharmaceutical manufacturing

Cell Culture Process Development professionals focus on creating and refining cell culture methods to ensure scalable, efficient processes. In contrast, Cell Culture Manufacturing Associates execute these processes in production settings to manufacture products at scale. Both roles require related skills and work within the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, but their responsibilities differ from development to manufacturing execution.

What is cell culture process development?

Cell culture process development is the optimization and scaling of laboratory techniques used to grow cells under controlled conditions, typically for the production of biological products like vaccines, antibodies, or therapeutic proteins. This field involves designing and refining protocols for cell line selection, media formulation, bioreactor operation, and quality control. The goal is to achieve high yields, consistency, and product quality while meeting regulatory standards. Professionals in this area work closely with research scientists, engineers, and quality assurance teams to transition processes from the lab bench to large-scale manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in cell culture process development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in cell culture process development often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent cell growth, scaling processes from laboratory to production scale, and ensuring contamination-free environments. Addressing these issues requires strong attention to detail, rigorous adherence to standard operating procedures, and proactive troubleshooting skills. Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as quality assurance and analytical development, is also essential to optimize processes and resolve technical issues swiftly. Continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies can further help in overcoming these challenges and advancing in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Cell Culture Process Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Cell Culture Process Development, you typically need a background in biology, biotechnology, or chemical engineering, with hands-on experience in aseptic techniques and cell culture methodologies. Familiarity with bioreactors, cell counting equipment, and statistical analysis software, as well as certifications such as cGMP training, are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help professionals excel in optimizing and troubleshooting cell culture processes. These competencies are crucial to ensure high-yield, consistent, and safe production of biologics or therapeutic compounds.
What are popular job titles related to Cell Culture Process Development jobs in California? For Cell Culture Process Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cell Culture Process Development jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cell Culture Process Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cell Culture Process Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Cell Culture Process Development job openings:
Cell Culture Process Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cell Culture Process Development job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,143 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
Engineer, Process Development hybrid (JP13072)

Engineer, Process Development hybrid (JP13072)

3 Key Consulting

Thousand Oaks, CA • Hybrid

$38 - $42/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Engineer, Process Development hybrid (JP13072)
Location: Thousand Oaks, CA. 91320 (hybrid)
Business Unit: Drug Substance Technology and Engineering
Employment Type: Contract
Duration: 1+ year(s) with likely extensions and/or conversion to permanent.
Rate: $38 - $42/hour W2
Posting Date: 8/6/2024.
Notes: Only qualified candidates need apply. Onsite 3-4 days a week at Thousand Oaks, CA. campus. Standard business hours with some after hour support. On site minimum 3 days per week. Must have biotech background/experience, plus must have cell culture and/or purification experience
3 Key Consulting is hiring! We are recruiting a Engineer, Process Development for a consulting engagement with our direct client, a leading global biotechnology company.
Job Description:
Our ideal candidate will have 2-4 years of relevant experience working in drug and animal cells; and strong process knowledge. Experience purifying cells (biologics purifications), drug substance GMP manufacturing.
We are seeking a Process Development Engineer to join the Drug Substance Technology Engineering team at our client's Thousand Oaks, CA. facility. Providing process engineering support for human therapeutic products in clinical development through commercial production, our client's mission is to translate developmental processes to commercial reality for patients through scientific expertise and engineering innovation.
The Engineer will apply cell culture and/or purification process engineering knowledge in support of technology transfer and clinical/commercial drug substance manufacturing in an innovative manufacturing suite using single-use technology. Will partner with manufacturing, quality, analytical, and bench scientists to support a highly dynamic manufacturing facility.
Top Must Have Skill Sets:
  • Drug substance biologics process development, pilot plant or manufacturing technical support
  • Purification of monoclonal antibodies
  • Experience in GMP environment (preferably in drug substance)

Day to Day Responsibilities:
The Engineer will apply cell culture and/or purification process engineering knowledge in support of technology transfer and clinical/commercial drug substance manufacturing in an innovative manufacturing suite using single-use technology. Will partner with manufacturing, quality, analytical, and bench scientists to support a highly dynamic manufacturing facility.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Master degree OR Bachelor degree and 2 years of experience OR Associate degree and 6 years of experience OR High school diploma / GED and 8 years of experience
  • Must have biotech background/experience, plus must have cell culture and/or purification experience

Why is the Position Open?
Backfill.
Red Flags:
  • Short duration stints in prior jobs
  • Resume does not accurately reflect true experience
  • Cultural fit - manager described the team as easy going, growth motivated, organized, and respectful.
  • Too senior or experienced for the position (not looking for more than 5+ years of experience)

Interview Process:
  • Phone interview
  • Panel interview with 3-4 individuals in the team (with manager and director)

We invite qualified candidates to sendyour resume toresumes@3keyconsulting.com. Ifyou decide that you're not interested in pursuing this particular position, please feel free to take a look at the other positions on our websitewww.3keyconsulting.com/careers. You are also welcome to sharethis opportunity withanyone you think might be interested in applying for this role.

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