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Cell Culture Process Development Jobs in California

... mammalian cell culture, chromatography, filtration, UF/DF, and drug substance production. * Support technology transfer strategy development, technical readiness assessments, process fit-gap ...

$22 - $24.50/hr

You collaborate closely with Biological Development (BD) and Manufacturing Science and Technology ... In this role, you act as the technical SME for key aspects of the manufacturing process and help ...

Showing results 21-40

Cell Culture Process Development information

See California salary details

$18

$33

$48

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

As of Aug 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?

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:

Infographic showing various Cell Culture Process Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,143 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Senior Principal Scientist: Metabolomics/Cell Therapy Media Development

Genentech

South San Francisco, CA

$143K - $266K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Genentech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

This role is a vital part of our Cell Therapy Process Development team within Pharma Technical Cell and Gene Therapy Development (PTCC), which is committed to advancing next-generation cell therapies through innovative metabolomics research and media optimization.

As a member of this team, you will lead cutting-edge efforts to develop and optimize cell culture media platforms while collaborating closely with key stakeholders across Analytical Development, Research, Manufacturing Operations, and cross-functional teams within Genentech and Roche. You will serve as the primary in-house expert on state-of-the-art cell therapy media development practices, translating deep scientific expertise into strategic innovations that enable breakthrough therapies to reach patients. This position offers the opportunity to shape the future of cell therapy manufacturing while fostering a collaborative, inclusive team culture focused on continuous improvement.

The Opportunity

In this role, you will lead metabolomics research initiatives focused on developing and optimizing cell culture media for a diverse portfolio of cell therapy products. You will provide scientific and strategic guidance to establish highly-productive platform processes while serving as the primary technical expert and thought leader in cell therapy media development. Additional responsibilities include:

  • Designing and developing chemically-defined cell culture media platforms tailored to meet the unique needs of T cell therapies, stem cell therapies, and other cell-based products

  • Applying advanced metabolomics tools, computational methods, and -omics technologies to deeply understand cell metabolism and drive continuous improvement in cell culture performance

  • Leading technology transfer initiatives and collaborate with manufacturing operations to translate laboratory innovations into scalable, robust processes

  • Providing technical leadership and strategic guidance to process development teams, media preparation operations, and supply chain partners to resolve complex challenges and optimize raw material selection

  • Mentoring and developing scientific staff within the Cell Therapy Process Development group, fostering a culture of technical excellence, lean thinking, and continuous improvement

  • Interfacing effectively across multiple internal stakeholder groups (Analytical Development, Research, Manufacturing, Quality) and external collaborators to align priorities and drive impactful outcomes

  • Establishing thought leadership through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and participation in industry discussions on metabolomics and cell therapy manufacturing

This position may be based out of South San Francisco or San Diego, CA.

Who You Are
The successful candidate will have an established track record for strong technical leadership in metabolomics research and/or cell culture media development.

  • Advanced degree and extensive experience: PhD in biological sciences, chemical engineering, or related discipline with 5+ years of relevant research and development experience in metabolomics and/or cell culture media development

  • Strategic technical leadership: Proven track record of leading complex technical projects from conception to completion with strong organizational skills and scientific rigor; demonstrated ability to translate research insights into practical manufacturing solutions

  • Team development and inclusive leadership: Demonstrated success building, managing, and developing highly productive technical teams with an emphasis on creating an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and fosters collaboration

  • Matrixed stakeholder management: Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with cross-functional partners, customers, and collaborators; excellent skills in influencing, communication, and working effectively across organizational boundaries in complex matrixed environments

  • Thought leadership and communication: Established track record of excellent verbal and written communication demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to audiences at all levels

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $143,290 - $266,110. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at this link.

Relocation benefits are available for this position.

#LI-CA1

#ptcareers

#cellandgenetherapycareers#

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.


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About Genentech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 40 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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