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Downstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Oklahoma

Leaf Forge

Production Supervisor

Pryor, OK

... downstream manufacturing. This role ensures operations meet or exceed safety, quality, and ... Associate degree preferred. * 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing, agriculture processing, or ...

Leaf Forge

Production Supervisor

Pryor Creek, OK · On-site

... downstream manufacturing. This role ensures operations meet or exceed safety, quality, and ... Associate degree preferred. * 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing, agriculture processing, or ...

Accenture

$94K - $293K/yr

... and downstream commercialization * Build and apply technical, industry, organization, and ... Bachelor's degree or equivalent (minimum 12 years) work experience. (If associate degree, must have ...

All JobsDownstream Manufacturing Associate JobsDownstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Oklahoma

Downstream Manufacturing Associate information

What is a downstream manufacturing associate?

Downstream Manufacturing Associates are professionals who work in the later stages of biopharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturing processes. Their main responsibilities involve purifying and processing biological products after the initial production phase, often using techniques like filtration and chromatography. They ensure the quality and safety of the final product by following strict protocols and maintaining detailed documentation. Downstream associates often work in cleanroom environments and collaborate with other teams to meet production goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a downstream manufacturing associate?

To thrive as a Downstream Manufacturing Associate, you need a solid understanding of bioprocessing, protein purification, and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards, often gained through a degree in life sciences or related field. Familiarity with chromatography systems, filtration technologies, and process automation tools is typically required, alongside relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills are valued soft skills in this role. These qualifications are essential for ensuring the efficient, safe, and compliant production of biopharmaceutical products.

What are some typical challenges faced by downstream manufacturing associates, and how can they be addressed?

Downstream Manufacturing Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), troubleshooting equipment issues, and ensuring consistent product quality during purification and filtration processes. These challenges can be addressed through thorough training, clear documentation, and effective communication within the team. Collaborating closely with upstream teams and quality control helps resolve issues quickly and ensures smooth workflow. Staying detail-oriented and proactive in identifying potential bottlenecks also contributes to success in this role.

What is the difference between Downstream Manufacturing Associate vs Upstream Manufacturing Associate?

AspectDownstream Manufacturing AssociateUpstream Manufacturing Associate
Primary ResponsibilitiesPurifies, filters, and processes final product batchesPrepares raw materials and manages initial production stages
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, laboratory, manufacturing floorManufacturing plant, laboratory, production line
Required CertificationsGMP training, OSHA safety certificationsGMP training, OSHA safety certifications
Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech manufacturingPharmaceutical, biotech manufacturing

Downstream Manufacturing Associates focus on final product purification and processing, while Upstream Manufacturing Associates handle raw material preparation and initial production. Both roles are essential in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, often requiring similar certifications and working in related environments.

Infographic showing various Downstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Production Supervisor

Pryor, OK

Leaf Forge
See more jobs at Leaf Forgeexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Leaf Forge is a cutting-edge tobacco processing facility based in Pryor, Oklahoma. With construction completed in 2024, this facility spans 250,000 square feet and is adjacent to its parent company, Xcaliber International. This state-of-the-art processing facility employs advanced manufacturing and processing technologies to transform raw tobacco into the finished product used in cigarette production. With over twenty years of experience in manufacturing, Leaf Forge's parent company, Xcaliber International, has garnered a reputation as being one of the top employers in northeastern Oklahoma.
About the Role
The Production Supervisor – Leaf Processing oversees all aspects of primary tobacco processing operations, including receiving, conditioning, blending, and preparation of leaf for downstream manufacturing. This role ensures operations meet or exceed safety, quality, and throughput targets while maintaining compliance with FDA, TTB, OSHA, and applicable agricultural handling standards. The Supervisor provides leadership to processing staff, ensuring adherence to company policies and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
A Day in the Life
Each day begins with reviewing production priorities, incoming leaf schedules, and operational goals. You’ll oversee equipment startups, verify raw material availability and condition (moisture, grade, and storage), and ensure team members are equipped with proper PPE. Throughout the day, you’ll monitor processing flow, moisture levels, and equipment performance, making adjustments to maintain consistency and efficiency. You’ll coordinate closely with maintenance and quality teams while leading, coaching, and developing your team in a safe and productive environment.
What You Will Do
  • Supervise daily leaf processing operations, including receiving, storage, conditioning, blending, and material movement.
  • Ensure compliance with FDA, TTB, OSHA, and company safety and handling standards.
  • Coordinate staffing, scheduling, and timekeeping for processing associates.
  • Monitor throughput, yield, waste, and product quality to achieve operational KPIs.
  • Verify proper leaf handling, storage conditions, and moisture control throughout processing.
  • Investigate and resolve processing, quality, or equipment issues in real-time.
  • Lead daily start-up, safety, and production meetings.
  • Train and coach employees on equipment operation, safety procedures, and quality standards.
  • Maintain accurate documentation, including material tracking, yields, waste, and downtime.
  • Partner with maintenance to support preventive maintenance and minimize downtime.
  • Communicate effectively across teams to ensure continuity of operations.
  • Support continuous improvement, waste reduction, and process optimization initiatives.
What You Bring
  • High School Diploma or GED required; Associate degree preferred.
  • 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing, agriculture processing, or raw material handling, including supervisory or lead experience.
  • Strong knowledge of material handling, processing equipment, and safety practices.
  • Understanding of moisture control, storage conditions, and quality factors related to raw materials.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and team development skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Working knowledge of ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
Nice to Have
  • Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Management, Agriculture, Manufacturing, or related field.
  • Experience in tobacco, food processing, or other regulated industries.
  • Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.
  • Familiarity with preventive maintenance systems and root cause analysis tools.
Why You Will Love Working Here
At Leaf Forge, we take pride in building a workplace grounded in teamwork, accountability, and operational excellence. Employees value the opportunity to be part of a growing operation where their contributions directly impact production success. With a strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement, Leaf Forge offers a hands-on environment where leaders can make a meaningful difference while developing their teams and advancing their careers.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary with annual performance bonus.
  • Discretionary profit sharing.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Company-paid short-term and long-term disability.
  • Company-paid life insurance for employees and eligible dependents.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution.
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Recognition and retention bonus opportunities.
  • Ongoing professional development and career advancement programs.
  • Supportive, team-based culture with strong leadership visibility.
Join Us
If you are a motivated and experienced leader who values teamwork, quality, and operational excellence, we invite you to join Leaf Forge. Apply today to be part of a team that values safety, precision, and continuous improvement.
EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or disability.
Except where prohibited by state law, all offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test and background check.

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