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Kinetic Personnel Group

Be Seen First

Biopharma Manufacturing Roles Degree Required

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

The Manufacturing Associate - Buffer Preparation supports cGMP manufacturing operations by preparing buffers and solutions used in upstream and downstream bioprocessing. This role is critical to ...

Alamar Biosciences

Manufacturing Associate I

Fremont, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Perform standardized antibodies dispensing and support lyophilization of critical components for downstream manufacturing. * Assist in other areas of manufacturing deemed high priority such as ...

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How much do downstream manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Downstream Manufacturing, and why are they important?

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 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.

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 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.
More about Downstream Manufacturing jobs
What states have the most Downstream Manufacturing jobs? States with the most job openings for Downstream Manufacturing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Downstream Manufacturing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Downstream Manufacturing jobs are:
Downstream Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Manufacturing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,890 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Principal Scientist, Global Downstream Production

WuXi Biologics

Cranbury, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title - Global Downstream Production Leader (International Deployment)
Work Location - Years 1-2 (Rooting Phase): Shanghai / Wuxi / Suzhou, China (Deep immersion in WuXi system) Years 3+ (Assignment Phase): USA / Singapore (Based on business needs and individual preferences)
Reporting Line - (Rooting Phase) Site Head, China (Assignment Phase) Site Head, Overseas Site
Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship
Career Opportunity
This fast-track global leadership program is designed to prepare future leaders by providing hands-on training at WuXi Biologics' mature production sites and immersing participants in the company's organizational culture. The initial assignment will offer comprehensive exposure to WuXi Biologics' operating model, systems, and best practices. Through active management of local teams and the delivery of impactful projects, you will develop essential leadership and operational insight required for success throughout our global network.
Responsibilities
Years 1-2 (Foundation Phase in China):
  • Production Leadership: Overseeing daily downstream manufacturing operations in one of mature facilities. This includes direct management of Shift Leaders, training, talent development, and performance evaluation, etc.
  • Project Execution: Lead downstream activities for manufacturing deliveries. Be accountable for ensuring product quality, maintaining GMP compliance, delivering projects on time, and executing according to established schedules.
  • Organizational Immersion: Gain an in-depth understanding of WuXi Biologics' quality systems, digital tools, and cross-functional operating model. Apply this knowledge to make effective decisions, lead teams, and drive operational excellence.

Years 3 and beyond (In USA/Singapore):
  • Operational Deployment: Implement WuXi Biologics' operating model and manufacturing standards at the overseas site, taking the lead in establishing, scaling up, and continually optimizing downstream production operations.
  • Team Leadership: Build, develop, and lead the overseas downstream manufacturing team, cultivating "WuXi Speed" and a high-performance culture focused on quality, accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence.
  • Technology Transfer Leadership: Serve as the primary technical lead for transferring downstream processes between sites, ensuring seamless, compliant, and reliable implementation at scale.
  • Global Coordination: Act as a vital link between sites, enabling effective cross-regional collaboration, technical alignment, and coordinated allocation of resources.

Qualifications
  • Master's degree or above in Chemical/Biological engineering, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Chemistry or a related field
  • 3-5 years of experiences in biologics antibody manufacturing, including a minimum of 2 years in a downstream production management role.
  • Proven hands-on experiences in GMP manufacturing environments, including frontline production leadership and team management at a U.S. or EU site, with a strong understanding of regulatory inspection expectations and compliance requirements.
  • Experience supporting commercial manufacturing operations and successfully participating in FDA and/or EMA inspections is highly preferred.
  • Extensive technical expertise in downstream purification processes, including chromatography (affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion), filtration (ultrafiltration/diafiltration), and viral clearance operations. Demonstrated ability to tech transfer process while maintaining regulatory compliance.
  • Strong understanding of GMP requirements and the ability to translate those requirements into effective daily management and execution on the manufacturing floor.
  • Bilingual Proficiency: Native-level fluency in English, with the ability to lead frontline teams in manufacturing environments and communicate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders and global leadership, both verbally and in writing. Proficiency in Mandarin Chinese is preferred but not required, as it will facilitate integration into local teams and enhance communication during assignments when based in China.
  • Cross-cultural Adaptability: Demonstrate ability to adapt and thrive in cross-cultural environments, with a high degree of resilience. Willing to establish strong working relationships, and gain an in-depth understanding of WuXi Biologics' operating model and organizational culture.
  • Leadership Approach: A dynamic, coaching-oriented leader who inspires teams, cultivates robust talent pipelines, and seamlessly blends hands-on manufacturing expertise with a deep commitment to developing people and fostering their growth.

WuXi Biologics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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