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Downstream Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legend Biotech USA, Inc.

Legend Biotech is seeking a Principal Engineer, Lentivirus Downstream Process Development as part of the Technical Development team based in Somerset, NJ.Role OverviewThe Principal Engineer ...

Lonza

MSAT Process Engineer

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

$106K - $137K/yr

This person should have experience supporting at-scale downstream processing. Some of the responsibilities included for the Process Engineer include: * Performs all MSAT functions associated with ...

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All JobsDownstream Process Engineer Jobs

Downstream Process Engineer information

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$49.5K

$92K

$142.5K

How much do downstream process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for downstream process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Downstream Process Engineer vs Upstream Process Engineer?

AspectDownstream Process EngineerUpstream Process Engineer
Primary FocusPurification, separation, and finishing of bioproductsCell culture, fermentation, and biomass production
Skills & CertificationsBioprocessing, chromatography, filtration, GMP knowledgeBioreactor operation, microbiology, fermentation techniques
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, labs, quality controlResearch labs, pilot plants, production facilities
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceutical manufacturingBiotech, pharmaceutical, agricultural biotech

Both roles are essential in bioprocessing, with downstream process engineers focusing on product purification and upstream process engineers on initial bioproduction. Understanding their differences helps in career planning and job search strategies within the biotech industry.

What is a downstream process engineer?

A Downstream Process Engineer is a professional who specializes in the purification and processing of biological products, such as proteins or pharmaceuticals, after the initial production phase. Their main responsibility is to develop, optimize, and manage processes that separate and refine products from mixtures, ensuring quality and efficiency. This typically involves techniques like filtration, chromatography, and centrifugation. Downstream Process Engineers work closely with other scientists and engineers to scale up processes for commercial manufacturing while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a downstream process engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Downstream Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or biochemical engineering, experience with purification processes, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with chromatography, filtration systems, process simulation software (like Aspen or MATLAB), and cGMP regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills enable effective troubleshooting and collaboration with cross-functional teams. These skills are crucial for optimizing product yield, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining efficient and safe manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges faced by downstream process engineers when scaling up bioprocesses from lab to production?

One of the key challenges for Downstream Process Engineers is ensuring that purification and separation processes developed at the lab scale remain efficient and cost-effective during large-scale production. Factors such as changes in equipment performance, increased impurity loads, and process consistency can complicate scale-up. Engineers must also collaborate closely with upstream teams, quality assurance, and manufacturing staff to troubleshoot issues and optimize yield and product quality. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth transition from development to manufacturing.
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What job categories do people searching Downstream Process Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Downstream Process Engineer jobs are:
Downstream Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Locum Tenens, 79% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,018 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Process Engineer

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Hi,

My name is Karthik Mutyala and I’m a Recruitment Manager with Stark Pharma, specializing in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device roles. I came across your profile and wanted to see if you are open to new opportunities.

If interested, please send me your updated resume along with the best number and time to reach you.

Job Title: Tech Transfer Process Engineer

Location: Minneapolis, MN (Hybrid)

Schedule: Initially 1 week/month onsite, increasing to 50–60% onsite during project execution

Contract Duration: 12+ Months

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Tech Transfer Process Engineer to support technology transfer and startup activities within a pharmaceutical/biologics manufacturing environment. This role will focus on process knowledge transfer, operational readiness, startup execution, and CQV support across both upstream and downstream manufacturing systems.

The engineer will join during the late design phase and play a key role in transitioning systems into execution, commissioning, qualification, and startup activities while supporting manufacturing readiness and field operations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support technology transfer activities for pharmaceutical and biologics manufacturing processes
  • Assist with startup execution, process scale-up, and operational readiness activities
  • Provide technical support across upstream and downstream processing operations
  • Support commissioning, qualification, and validation (CQV) activities for manufacturing systems and equipment
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Validation, and Operations teams during project execution
  • Support CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems and related process integration activities
  • Assist with troubleshooting, process optimization, and startup issue resolution
  • Participate in field execution activities and support early construction ramp-up efforts
  • Ensure documentation and activities align with GMP and regulatory expectations

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience as a Tech Transfer Process Engineer within pharmaceutical or biologics manufacturing environments
  • Hands-on experience supporting startup and technology transfer activities
  • Strong understanding of upstream and downstream bioprocessing operations
  • Experience supporting CQV (Commissioning, Qualification, and Validation) activities
  • Working knowledge of CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems
  • Strong cross-functional communication and collaboration skills