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Upstream, Formulation & Downstream Manufacturing Associate Location: Tustin, CA Industry: Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Schedule: 5:00PM - 2:00AM Employment Type: Full-Time Position Summary A ...

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How much do downstream manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream manufacturing in the United States is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is downstream manufacturing?

Downstream manufacturing refers to the processes involved in the purification and formulation of products after the initial production phase, particularly in industries like biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. It typically includes steps such as separation, purification, and packaging of biomolecules or chemicals produced during upstream processes like fermentation or cell culture. The goal of downstream manufacturing is to ensure that the final product meets quality, safety, and regulatory standards before distribution to the market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in downstream manufacturing?

To thrive in Downstream Manufacturing, you need a solid understanding of biochemical processes, purification techniques, and quality control standards, often supported by a background in biotechnology, chemistry, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with process automation systems, chromatography equipment, and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certification is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this field. These skills ensure efficient production, product purity, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration in biomanufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced in downstream manufacturing roles and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Downstream Manufacturing often encounter challenges such as maintaining product purity, optimizing yield, and troubleshooting equipment issues during purification processes. Adapting to rapidly changing production schedules and ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards can also pose difficulties. Effective solutions include thorough training in process controls, routine equipment maintenance, and strong collaboration with quality assurance and upstream teams to streamline workflows and address issues proactively.

What is the difference between Downstream Manufacturing vs Upstream Manufacturing?

AspectDownstream ManufacturingUpstream Manufacturing
FocusProcessing and finishing products after initial productionRaw material extraction and initial production processes
Work EnvironmentFactories, chemical plants, refineriesMining sites, raw material processing facilities
Common CertificationsProcess Safety Management, OSHA certificationsMining safety certifications, OSHA
Industry UsagePetroleum, chemicals, pharmaceuticalsMining, raw material extraction

Downstream Manufacturing involves processing and finishing products after initial production, often in chemical plants or refineries. Upstream Manufacturing focuses on raw material extraction and initial processing, such as mining or crude oil extraction. Both roles are essential in the supply chain but differ in their focus, environment, and certifications.

More about Downstream Manufacturing jobs

What states have the most Downstream Manufacturing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Downstream Manufacturing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Downstream Manufacturing job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,890 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Downstream Manufacturing Specialist

Astrix Inc.

Morrisville, NC โ€ข On-site

$250/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Downstream Manufacturing Specialist to support the manufacturing of gene therapy products in a GMP-regulated environment. This role will be responsible for executing and supporting downstream purification and processing activities, ensuring manufacturing operations are performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with approved procedures and regulatory requirements.

The ideal candidate has handsโ€‘on experience with downstream bioprocessing, strong attention to detail, and a working knowledge of GMP manufacturing practices. This is a contract-to-hire opportunity for an individual who is interested in building a longโ€‘term career within a growing gene therapy organization. Pay rate: $40-42/hr Shift: 1st shift, with occasional 2nd shift

Key Responsibilities
  • Execute downstream manufacturing activities for gene therapy products in accordance with approved batch records, SOPs, protocols, and GMP requirements.
  • Perform and support downstream purification and processing operations, which may include:
    • Clarification and filtration
    • Centrifugation
    • Chromatography
    • Tangential flow filtration (TFF)
    • Buffer and media preparation
    • Ultrafiltration/diafiltration
    • Product concentration and formulation
    • Aseptic processing and final bulk operations
  • Operate, clean, sanitize, and maintain manufacturing equipment and associated systems.
  • Perform inโ€‘process sampling and coordinate with Quality Control for testing as required.
  • Accurately document manufacturing activities in batch records, logbooks, and electronic systems in accordance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
  • Identify process deviations, equipment issues, and manufacturing abnormalities and promptly elevate them to appropriate personnel.
  • Support deviation investigations, CAPAs, change controls, and other manufacturing quality initiatives.
  • Follow all applicable GMP, environmental health and safety (EHS), biosafety, and facility procedures.
  • Assist with equipment setup, line clearance, cleaning verification, and manufacturing area preparation.
  • Participate in process optimization, continuous improvement, and manufacturing scaleโ€‘up activities.
  • Work closely with Manufacturing, Process Development, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Engineering, and Facilities teams.
  • Support technology transfer and process validation activities as needed.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant manufacturing environment.
  • Participate in shift activities, overtime, and occasional weekend work based on manufacturing schedules.
Qualifications Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related scientific/engineering discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
  • 2+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical, biologics, cell therapy, gene therapy, or related GMP manufacturing.
  • Handsโ€‘on experience with downstream bioprocessing and purification operations.
  • Understanding of GMP manufacturing principles and Good Documentation Practices.
  • Ability to follow detailed SOPs and batch records while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and problemโ€‘solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a crossโ€‘functional, teamโ€‘oriented environment.
  • Ability to work onโ€‘site in a manufacturing environment and wear required PPE.
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