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Downstream Process Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kinetic Personnel Group

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Downstream Manufacturing Associate Biopharma

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

This entry-level position supports the purification and processing of biologic drug substances using downstream manufacturing operations in a cGMP-regulated environment. This role is ideal for recent ...

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Sanmina

Process Engineer - Electroplating

San Jose, CA

$100K - $135K/yr

Work collaboratively with upstream and downstream process modules to investigate defect root causes and develop solutions. Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline ...

Sanmina

Sr. Process Engineer - Lithography

San Jose, CA

$135K - $150K/yr

Work collaboratively with upstream and downstream process modules to investigate defect root causes and develop solutions. Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline ...

Valspec

Validation Engineer (CQV)

Oceanside, CA

This role will focus on downstream process systems and requires strong hands-on field execution, system troubleshooting, and automation verification experience in a GMP-regulated environment. Key ...

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Downstream Process information

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$13

$24

$35

How much do downstream process jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream process in California is $24.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in downstream process roles within biomanufacturing?

Professionals in downstream process roles often encounter challenges such as optimizing purification steps to maximize yield and product purity while minimizing costs and processing time. They must also troubleshoot issues related to equipment performance, scalability, and regulatory compliance, especially when transitioning from lab-scale to large-scale production. Collaboration with upstream teams, quality assurance, and engineering is critical to address these challenges and ensure a smooth workflow. Staying current with technological advances and regulatory requirements also plays a significant role in day-to-day success.

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, knowledge of purification techniques, and typically a relevant degree. Familiarity with process control systems, chromatography, filtration technologies, and GMP compliance, as well as certifications like Six Sigma, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and address complex production challenges. These skills ensure efficient, high-quality product recovery and compliance with industry standards in biomanufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Downstream Process vs Upstream Process?

AspectDownstream ProcessUpstream Process
PurposePurifies and isolates the target product from the mixtureProduces the initial product, such as cell culture or fermentation
ActivitiesFiltration, chromatography, centrifugation, purificationCell growth, fermentation, media preparation
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, bioprocessing facilitiesBioreactors, fermentation tanks, labs
Required SkillsBioprocessing techniques, chromatography, filtrationMicrobiology, cell culture, fermentation technology

Downstream Process focuses on purifying the product, while Upstream Process involves producing the raw material. Both are essential steps in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, often working sequentially to ensure high-quality product output.

What is a Downstream Process in biotechnology?

A Downstream Process refers to the series of steps involved in the purification and recovery of biological products, such as proteins, enzymes, or antibodies, after they have been produced by microorganisms or cells during fermentation or cell culture. It typically includes cell separation, product isolation, purification, and polishing to achieve the desired product quality and purity. Downstream processing is crucial for ensuring that biopharmaceutical products meet regulatory and safety standards before they reach the market.
What are popular job titles related to Downstream Process jobs in California? For Downstream Process jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Downstream Process jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Downstream Process jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Downstream Process jobs? Cities in California with the most Downstream Process job openings:
Downstream Process jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Process job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Locum Tenens, 73% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,647 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Process Engineer, Downstream Processing

Process Engineer, Downstream Processing

Visolis

Hayward, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Description

The Process Engineer with our Downstream Processing team will be responsible for providing support activities in the catalysis and process development areas. Specifically, the person in this position will contribute to the development of the production process and catalyst development strategies through the operation of lab-scale reactors to quantitatively characterize catalysts for the production of renewable chemicals. The person will work closely with engineering, molecular biology and analytical teams to increase the yield and productivity of the processes. The scientist will promote a strong health, safety and environment culture on site and within the team.
Primary Responsibilities

  • Assist in the scale up of Visolis' patented processes to make a range of bio-based chemical products.
  • Design experiments to test catalysts.
  • Perform various unit operations and different purification/separation processes.
  • Run analytical instruments for quantification.
  • Collect and process samples for products of interest.
  • Analyze and report data to enable appropriate interpretation and follow up experiments.
  • Identify and report opportunities for improvement and assist to implement as needed.
  • Proactively communicate information through appropriate verbal and written means and actively participate in meetings.
  • Understand and follow department and corporate guidelines, compliance and safety rules and procedures related to duties.
  • Perform other reasonably related duties not expressly written in this job description as may be assigned from time to time.

Job Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • B.S. or higher in Chemical Engineering
  • Flexibility in working schedule to accommodate experimental needs.
  • Ability to lift approximately 10-20 kg routinely.
  • Eligibility to work in the US (no visa sponsorship/transfer).

Preferred Qualifications

  • Industrial engineering experience, including process development for chemical production processes.
  • Familiar with HPLC analysis.
  • Strong computer and analytical skills, statistical analysis and reporting experience.
Visolis logo

About Visolis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Clean energy semiconductors manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Hayward, CA, US

Year founded

2012

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