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Downstream Process Development Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

Biologist (50849)

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$92K - $102K/yr

Develop downstream (purification) processes, under the supervision of a project lead scientist, for ... Coordinate with project management to ensure development milestones and study deliverables are met ...

Develop downstream (purification) processes, under the supervision of a project lead scientist, for ... Coordinate with project management to ensure development milestones and study deliverables are met ...

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Downstream Process Development information

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$36

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How much do downstream process development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream process development in Gaithersburg, MD is $36.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.86 and $44.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is downstream process development?

A Downstream Process Development job involves optimizing and scaling purification processes for biologics, such as proteins, antibodies, or gene therapies. Scientists and engineers in this role develop efficient methods for isolation, purification, and formulation of therapeutic products while ensuring quality and regulatory compliance. Key activities include chromatography, filtration, and process analytics to improve yield, purity, and consistency. This role is critical in biotech and pharmaceutical industries to ensure safe and effective drug production for clinical and commercial use.

What does someone in downstream process development do?

Professionals in Downstream Process Development are typically responsible for designing, optimizing, and scaling up purification processes for biopharmaceutical products. Their day-to-day work may involve conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, troubleshooting technical issues, and documenting process changes in accordance with regulatory standards. They also frequently collaborate with upstream processing, analytical, and quality teams to ensure seamless transfer and integration of processes. The role often includes participating in project meetings, contributing to process validation efforts, and supporting technology transfer to manufacturing teams, making it both technically challenging and collaborative.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for downstream process development?

To excel in Downstream Process Development, you generally need a strong background in biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related life sciences field, often with experience in bioprocessing or purification technologies. Familiarity with chromatography systems, filtration equipment, process analytical technology (PAT), and relevant software such as DeltaV or Unicorn is frequently required, along with knowledge of GMP and regulatory standards. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and cross-functional communication skills help professionals succeed in dynamic team environments. These competencies are crucial for developing efficient, scalable purification processes that ensure high product quality and support organizational goals.

What cities near Gaithersburg, MD are hiring for Downstream Process Development jobs?

Cities near Gaithersburg, MD with the most Downstream Process Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Downstream Process Development job openings in Gaithersburg, MD as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,697 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

Senior Scientist, Process Development

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Scorpion Therapeutics
51 - 200 employees

$113K - $181K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Your Contribution
  • Develop and qualify scale-down models for downstream purification processes to support monoclonal antibody manufacturing
  • Execute studies and FMEA assessments to establish critical process parameters and proven acceptable ranges for process characterization
  • Lead development, optimization, and characterization of downstream processes, including scale-up, virus/impurity clearance, and resin/membrane lifetime
  • Conduct downstream process unit operations such as depth filtration, chromatography, viral inactivation, viral filtration, tangential flow filtration, and formulation
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design experiments, analyze results, support technology transfers, and meet project timelines
  • Contribute to CMC documentation by drafting process descriptions, characterization reports, QbD risk assessments, and other technical reports
  • Drive the creation of best practices and workflows for process development in a fast-paced environment
A Good Match
  • PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry or related discipline with 6+ years of relevant experience (including post-doctoral training), or MS with 8+ years of industry experience
  • 6 years' experience in global pharma PD or MS&T for monoclonal antibodies or related biologics
  • Expertise in downstream process development including scale-up and technology transfer
  • Proven ability to design and execute process characterization studies using scale-down models that inform PPQ strategy
  • Strong understanding of biologics CMC processes including PPQ/BLA readiness; antibody or ADC development preferred
  • Demonstrated technical leadership within cross-functional teams and programs
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required
Benefits
  • Expected Pay Range: $113,600/year to $181,600/year + benefits, annual bonus & equity
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