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Downstream Process Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Process Chemist

Waltham, MA · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

Develop and optimize core synthesis and downstream processing, evaluating competing technical pathways and justifying key decisions using experimental results, process modeling, cost, and scale-up ...

Join Sartorius as a Process Technology Engineer, supporting upstream and downstream bioprocess solutions across the full project lifecycle-from customer discovery through project execution. You will ...

Senior Scientist, Process Development

Watertown, MA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Scientist, Process Development, responsible for executing cell culture experiments, downstream processing, analyzing data, and contributing to process development projects.

• The Scientist II, Downstream Processing will independently design, execute, and interpret studies to test and characterize new and prototype downstream processing technologies, equipment, and ...

• The Scientist II, Downstream Processing will independently design, execute, and interpret studies to test and characterize new and prototype downstream processing technologies, equipment, and ...

The Scientist II, Downstream Processing will independently design, execute, and interpret studies to test and characterize new and prototype downstream processing technologies, equipment, and ...

Develop and optimize upstream and downstream process design to establish scalable, cost-effective synthetic routes fit for initial clinical trials and as the foundation for Phase 3 * Partner closely ...

Develop and optimize upstream and downstream process design to establish scalable, cost-effective synthetic routes fit for initial clinical trials and as the foundation for Phase 3 * Partner closely ...

Showing results 21-40

Downstream Process information

See Massachusetts salary details

$14

$26

$38

How much do downstream process jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream process in Massachusetts is $26.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $30.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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?

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?

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 cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Downstream Process jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Downstream Process job openings:
Infographic showing various Downstream Process job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,046 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Global Head of Drug Substance

Zealand Pharma U.S., Inc.

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$200 - $260/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Your new position at Zealand Pharma is looking for a Global Head of Drug Substance – Senior Director, based in Boston. This is a rare opportunity to establish and lead a Peptide Process Development function from the ground up, building a Boston–based lab and team while providing global leadership across Drug Substance. The role owns the full arc from synthetic route scouting through Phase1 and2, laying the foundation for Phase3‑ready processes, and is central to enabling Zealand's growing pipeline of peptide therapeutics to reach patients.

Responsibilities
  • Establish and lead the Peptide Process Development lab in Boston, including hiring and developing a high‑performing local team.
  • Provide global leadership and strategic direction for the Drug Substance function from early discovery to Phase2.
  • Lead synthetic route scouting and salt selection, evaluating alternative processes with yield, COGS, manufacturability, and scalability as key decision criteria.
  • Develop and optimize upstream and downstream process design to establish scalable, cost‑effective synthetic routes fit for initial clinical trials and as the foundation for Phase3.
  • Partner closely with Analytical Development and Manufacturing to ensure processes are scalable, robust, and sustainable.
  • Drive technology transfer in collaboration with the DK drug substance team to external CMOs, ensuring a seamless transition from development to production.
  • Lead a globally distributed Drug Substance organization spanning two sites.
Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Extensive experience in peptide process development.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing cross‑functional or global technical teams.
  • Deep expertise in solid‑phase and/or liquid‑phase peptide synthesis, purification, and process optimization across Phase1,2 and3 clinical stages.
  • Broad experience across the full process development cycle, including synthetic route scouting, salt selection, upstream and downstream process optimization, and evaluation of process alternatives with a focus on yield, COGS, manufacturability, and scalability.
  • Knowledge of process development and technology transfer to GMP manufacturing, including CMO management.
  • Experience defining manufacturing strategies from early discovery to Phase2, with an eye toward building a robust foundation for Phase3 and commercial.
  • Strong cross‑functional collaboration skills, particularly with Analytical Development and Manufacturing.
Your New Team

This role leads a globally distributed Drug Substance organization spanning two sites. In Boston, the role will establish a process wet lab staffed with process scientists focused on hands‑on peptide process development and optimization. In Copenhagen, a DS team serves as the primary connection point to CMOs, ensuring alignment on manufacturing strategies, technology transfer, and day‑to‑day CMO oversight. Together, the two teams form a cohesive global function with complementary responsibilities, working in close partnership with colleagues across Research, Analytical Development, and Manufacturing.

We are committed to an inclusive recruitment process and welcome applications from all job applicants.

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