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Downstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Associate Location: Vacaville, CA 95688 Duration: 6 Months Job Type: Temporary ... Support Downstream Manufacturing activities, including fixed tank and filtration system operations ...

Manufacturing Associate Level 1 Number of Positions: 4 Location: 1000 New Horizons Way, Vacaville ... Downstream Manufacturing (DM) * Operate and clean fixed tank systems. * Operate and clean ...

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Downstream Manufacturing Associate information

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How much do downstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream manufacturing associate in the United States is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What cities are hiring for Downstream Manufacturing Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Downstream Manufacturing Associate job openings:

What states have the most Downstream Manufacturing Associate jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Downstream Manufacturing Associate jobs?

For Downstream Manufacturing Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Downstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,341 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

KBI: US - Senior Manufacturing Associate II

Durham, NC • On-site

KBI Biopharma, Inc.
Biotechnology Research and Development • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


KBI Biopharma rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

*Nightshift: 6PM-6AM, 2-2-3 rotating schedule
The Senior Manufacturing Associate I/II (Nights) is responsible for performing upstream or downstream processing of bulk intermediates and/or bulk drug substances for biopharmaceutical products. The Sr. Manufacturing Associate must follow written, approved procedures and forms to ensure all work is conducted "Right First Time" (RFT) following Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), including good documentation practices, and/or Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). As needed, the Sr. Manufacturing Associate will work individually or on teams to author standard operating procedures (SOPs) or Master Batch Records (MBRs); write corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs); and specify, commission, and qualify new equipment.
The Sr. Manufacturing Associate will be responsible for upstream unit operations (seed expansion, bioreactor operations, cell culture harvest), downstream unit operations (chromatography, tangential flow filtration, viral inactivation, and bulk filling) and/or manufacturing support operations (solution preparation, assembly preparation, parts wash, and autoclave) activities. The Sr. Manufacturing Associate will have past experience and a working knowledge of upstream processing equipment (incubators, biosafety cabinets, bioreactors, cell counters, blood gas analyzers, metabolite testing equipment), downstream processing equipment (mixing vessels, chromatography, tangential flow filters, virus filters), and/or manufacturing support equipment (mixing vessels, parts washers, and autoclaves). Additionally, the manufacturing associate will have knowledge of general bioprocessing equipment such as filters, filter integrity testers, balances, pumps, pH/conductivity meters, and disposable technologies (disposable bags, sterile tubing welders, tubing sealers).
The Sr. Manufacturing Associate will use past experiences and knowledge to teach, troubleshoot and continuously improve the daily operations of upstream or downstream manufacturing. Staff will maintain a sense of ownership of the production processes, the manufacturing environment, and the facility. The Sr. Manufacturing Associate will execute daily tasks and maintain strict accordance with manufacturing records, SOPs, and GMP with minimal supervision and effectively communicate with the manufacturing supervisor and support groups. Staff will work cross-functionally with QA, MS&T, facilities, engineering, supply chain, IT, AFS, and other key departments to ensure startup and ongoing manufacturing operations are successful, reliable, and compliant. The Sr. Manufacturing Associate will also be expected to review the manufacturing schedule, executed manufacturing documentation, and ERP orders to ensure compliant operations and schedule adherence. Staff will effectively communicate questions, concerns, or deviations to management and the quality system according to KBI internal notification processes.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Manufacture bulk intermediates and drug substances per manufacturing batch records and in compliance with quality standards, company policies and current regulations.
  • Perform operations in a cleanroom environment, applying controls to ensure aseptic processing including gowning and cleaning procedures
  • Document each task involving manufacturing records and logbooks following GDP at the time of execution.
  • Utilize and perform maintenance on equipment per applicable SOP.
  • Ensure all materials are issued and accounted for during the execution of a record (i.e. SR, EPR and BR).
  • Demonstrate, apply, and ensure understanding of cGMP and how it applies to specific tasks and responsibilities.
  • Participate and be accountable for workplace organization (5S).
  • Provide direction/guidance to Manufacturing Associates. Help supervisor to distribute the workload and ensure others understand the requirements of their tasks.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Sr. Manufacturing Associate I:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related scientific or engineering discipline with 4-6 years' experience in related GMP manufacturing operations; or high school degree with 7-10 years' experience in related GMP manufacturing operations.

Sr. Manufacturing Associate II:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related scientific or engineering discipline with 5+ years' experience in related GMP manufacturing operations; or high school degree with 10+ years' experience in related GMP manufacturing operations.

Basic knowledge of upstream (cell culture or fermentation) or downstream (purification and bulk filling) unit operations is preferred. • Experience in single-use platform technology is preferred. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required. • Energetic, motivated, and dynamic individual.
Language Ability
Fluent in reading and writing the English language. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, batch production records. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively to groups.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Math Ability
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret graphs.
Physical Demands
Standing and sitting for long periods of time may be required at times. Lifting, pushing, and pulling may be required for stocking and movement of equipment. The use of ladder may be required when setting up bioreactors.
Computer Skills
MS Office, ERP, EDMS, production equipment software, other
Equipment Use
Upstream or downstream bioprocessing equipment, general production equipment, in-process testing instruments, and office equipment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The job requires working 12-hour shifts which may include working overnight. The job requires working within a cGMP manufacturing biotechnology facility which requires clean room operations. Clean room operations require donning clean room attire when entering clean room areas and maintaining good personal hygiene. While performing the duties of this job the employee regularly utilizes equipment and materials which include mechanical hazards, chemical hazards, electricity hazards, and tripping and falling hazards. The noise level in the environment is moderate to high.
KBI Biopharma, Inc. is an EEO/AA employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. Therefore, all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability or veteran status, are strongly encouraged to apply.
I understand that neither the completion of this application nor any other part of my consideration for employment establishes any obligation for KBI Biopharma, Inc. to hire me. If I am hired, I understand that either KBI Biopharma, Inc. or I can terminate my employment at any time and for any reason, with or without cause and without prior notice. I understand that no representative of KBI Biopharma, Inc. has the authority to make any assurance to the contrary.
I attest with my signature below that I have given to KBI Biopharma, Inc. true and complete information on this application. No requested information has been concealed. I authorize KBI Biopharma, Inc. to contact references provided for employment reference checks. If any information I have provided is untrue, or if I have concealed material information, I understand that this will constitute cause for the denial of employment or immediate dismissal.

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