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Downstream Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Intuitive Surgical

$148K - $196K/yr

We're a team of engineers, clinicians, and innovators united by one purpose: to make surgery ... As a Downstream Product Manager, you will drive the development, launch, and sustaining of cutting ...

pony.ai

Software Engineer - Evaluation

Fremont, CA

$120K - $200K/yr

Build and optimize downstream engineering workflows for Large Language Models (LLMs), programmatically steering model reasoning, establishing guardrails, and mitigating hallucinations to ensure ...

pony.ai

Software Engineer - Evaluation

Fremont, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Build and optimize downstream engineering workflows for Large Language Models (LLMs), programmatically steering model reasoning, establishing guardrails, and mitigating hallucinations to ensure ...

SnapDocs

Senior Manager, Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Lead multi-quarter platform migrations and deprecation drives across downstream engineering teams, with zero high-severity production impact * Absorb organizational complexity so Staff and Principal ...

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Downstream Engineer information

What is a downstream engineer?

Downstream Engineers are professionals who work in the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry, which involves the refining of crude oil, processing of raw natural gas, and the distribution and marketing of petroleum products. They are responsible for designing, operating, and optimizing processes in refineries and petrochemical plants to ensure efficient and safe production. Downstream Engineers also work on improving product quality, reducing environmental impact, and troubleshooting operational issues. Their roles often require strong knowledge of chemical engineering, process optimization, and safety regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by downstream engineers when optimizing refinery processes?

Downstream Engineers often face the challenge of balancing efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance while optimizing refinery processes. They must troubleshoot complex systems, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions that maximize yield without compromising product quality or safety standards. Additionally, adapting to evolving regulations and integrating new technologies, such as digital process control systems, requires continuous learning and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. These challenges make the role dynamic and rewarding for engineers who enjoy problem-solving and innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a downstream engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Downstream Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or petroleum engineering, process optimization, and industrial safety, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (like Aspen HYSYS or ChemCAD), industry standards, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address operational challenges. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operation of refining and petrochemical processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Downstream Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Downstream Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Downstream Engineer jobs in California?

For Downstream Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Downstream Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Downstream Engineer jobs in California are:

Downstream Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Scientist II, Downstream Viral Vector Process Development

GeneFab

Alameda, CA • On-site

$130 - $150/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

GeneFab is seeking an experienced Downstream Process Development Scientist/Lead focused on viral vector purification (AAV and Lentiviral) for in‑vivo gene therapy. It is a technical, project‑based role within a CRDMO environment that balances hands‑on process optimization with cross‑functional leadership and client‑facing responsibilities.

Responsibilities
  • Design, optimize, and scale‑up downstream processes for the purification of viral vectors, with a focus on in‑vivo gene therapy products and lentiviral vectors.
  • Execute experimental plans, analyze data, and provide insightful recommendations to improve process efficiency, yield, and product quality.
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including Upstream Process Development, Analytical Development, and Manufacturing, to ensure seamless integration of processes.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges in downstream processes, ensuring robust and scalable solutions.
  • Present internally and to client with project status updates.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory guidelines to contribute to the continuous improvement of processes and compliance.
  • Provide direction and leadership to development associates as the team expands.
Qualifications
  • Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field with a minimum of 3 years (Ph.D.) or 5 years (Master’s) of relevant industry experience.
  • Proven expertise in downstream process development for viral vectors, with a focus on AAV and lentiviral vectors.
  • Hands‑on experience with chromatography, filtration, TFF and other downstream processing techniques.
  • Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements and quality standards related to biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
  • Experience with formulation science preferred.

$130,000 - $150,000 a year

About GeneFab

GeneFab is a contract manufacturing and synthetic biology biofoundry focused on cell and gene therapies. GeneFab was formed in 2023 with a vision to combine industry‑leading expertise in synthetic biology with advanced cGMP capabilities in order to accelerate the development and commercialization of genetic medicines. GeneFab offers its customers an extensive technology platform and know‑how that spans early stage product design, technical development, and cGMP compliant production. GeneFab’s technology platform includes bioinformatic‑guided discovery of cell type promoters, directed evolution of small molecule‑regulated gene switches, and the engineering of highly sensitive kill switches for enhanced safety and control of cellular therapies.

We are committed to an inclusive and diverse GeneFab. We believe that different perspectives lead to better ideas, and better ideas allow us to better understand the needs and interests of our diverse GeneFab team. We welcome people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives and are an equal opportunity employer.

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