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Cell Line Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ATUM

Senior Director of Program Management

Newark, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Senior Director of Program Management | ATUM ATUM is a leader in cell line development, gene synthesis, and protein engineering. We are seeking a strategic Director of Program Management to spearhead ...

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How much do cell line development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cell line development in California is $20.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cell line development?

To excel in Cell Line Development, a strong background in cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics is essential, often supported by a degree in a life science field. Experience with laboratory techniques such as cell culture, transfection, CRISPR gene editing, and using bioreactors or automated cell screening systems is highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for success. These qualifications are crucial to consistently generate, characterize, and optimize stable cell lines for research or bioproduction purposes.

What is cell line development?

A Cell Line Development job involves creating and optimizing stable cell lines used in biopharmaceutical production, research, and drug development. Professionals in this role engineer cells to express desired proteins, ensuring high yield and stability for large-scale manufacturing. Responsibilities include transfection, selection, characterization, and process optimization. This work is critical for producing therapeutic proteins, monoclonal antibodies, and vaccines.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities in cell line development?

Professionals in Cell Line Development typically spend their days culturing and maintaining mammalian or microbial cells, performing genetic modifications, and screening for desirable cell traits. They regularly design and execute experiments, analyze data, and meticulously document results to ensure reproducibility and regulatory compliance. Collaboration with upstream/downstream process teams, quality control, and research scientists is common, as is troubleshooting challenges such as cell viability or genetic stability. This role is hands-on and dynamic, offering a balance of bench work and data analysis throughout the week.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cell Line Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Cell Line Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cell Line Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Cell Line Development job openings:
Cell Line Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cell Line Development job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,507 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Scientist, Cell Line Development

Avid Bioservices

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Looking to join a passionate team dedicated to developing and manufacturing life-saving biopharmaceuticals? Avid Bioservices is a leading clinical and commercial biologics CDMO focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients and improve patient outcomes.
Your Role:
As a Cell Line Development Scientist, you will play a critical role in establishing high-performing mammalian cell lines that enable early-phase biologics programs. This position offers the opportunity to shape foundational capabilities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment focused on innovation and client success.
  • Design and execute strategies for stable cell line development using CHO cell line systems.
  • Perform hands-on CHO cell line development and characterization studies, including transfection, selection, single cell subcloning, growth and productivity screening, cell banking and stability assessment of cell banks.
  • Culture mammalian cells across multiple scales and formats, from 96-well plates up to large shake flasks, experience with ambr 250 and bioreactors is ideal.
  • Implement high-throughput screening and automation tools for clone evaluation.
  • Maintain rigorous documentation and ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
  • Author and review cell line development reports, summaries, and presentations.
  • Present updates at client and cross-functional meetings.
  • Partner with Upstream and Downstream Process Development and Analytical teams to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Contribute to technology evaluations and continuous improvement initiatives for cell line workflows.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • M.S. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.
  • 2-5 years of industry experience in cell development for biologics.
  • Hands-on experience with CHO cell systems, transfection methods, and clone screening for production of monoclonal antibodies, antibody-like molecules, enzymes, cytokines, bi-specifics and other recombinant molecules.
  • Strong knowledge of mammalian cell culture, molecular biology techniques and bio process engineering concepts.
  • Proficient in aseptic mammalian cell culture techniques.
  • Familiarity with automation platforms and data analysis tools.
  • Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements for GMP manufacturing.
  • Exposure to high-throughput analytics and bioinformatics tools.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
This role is a full-time position. Days of work are Monday through Friday. The employee must also, if instructed, have the ability to work overtime and/or weekends when necessary.
Compensation:
We offer competitive compensation packages for this role, including a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off.
The compensation range for this role is $85,000 to $116,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, we offer opportunities for career growth and development as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Who you are:
  • You have a "bring it on!" team player approach and an unshakable positive attitude, always ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
  • Your written and verbal skills are out of this world, and you communicate with clarity and confidence.
  • You have exceptional multitasking skills and an unparalleled attention to detail that ensure the smooth running of everything.
  • You are a master at building relationships, capable of establishing connections with anyone, be it team members, clients, vendors, or suppliers.
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
In this dynamic role, expect a blend of regular activities like sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional physically engaging tasks such as lifting objects up to 20 pounds. The work environment might expose you to electrical shocks, toxic chemicals, vibrations, or loud noise levels occasionally. However, reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with different abilities to perform effectively, ensuring a supportive and adaptable work setting. Your visual acuity, including close, distance, and color vision, will be essential in navigating through the diverse day-to-day demands of this position.
Employment Type: Full-Time

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