1

Downstream Process Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

A Scientist is a mid-level individual with understanding of cell/molecular biology and previous experience in either upstream or downstream biopharmaceutical processing that utilizes bioreactors. A ...

Operations naturally sits at the intersection of several upstream and downstream workflows ... Key Responsibilities Process Assessment & Optimization * Continuously evaluates existing ...

Showing results 21-40

Downstream Process information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$13

$24

$35

How much do downstream process jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream process in Pennsylvania is $24.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $28.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Downstream Process jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Downstream Process jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Downstream Process jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Downstream Process job openings:

Infographic showing various Downstream Process job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,442 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Senior Scientist/Team Leader - Bioprocess Development

Ecolab

King Of Prussia, PA • On-site

$107K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Ecolab rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 211 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Senior Scientist/Team Leader - Bioprocess Development

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and experiencedSenior Scientist/Team Leader - Bioprocess Developmentto lead downstream process development team focused on the chromatographic purification of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). This role is central to our mission of enabling large and small biopharmaceutical companies to bring transformative therapies to patients faster and more efficiently.

As a scientific leader, you will guide a team in designing and executing purification strategies that support late-stage development and manufacturing readiness. You'll work closely with external biopharma clients, helping them advance their molecules toward commercialization-ultimately impacting patient lives around the world.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead a team of bioprocess development scientists and serve as a subject matter expert in monoclonal antibody downstream processing with a heavy focus on preparative chromatography. Partner with leaders across Ecolab's global Bioprocessing labs to address complex purification challenges.
  • Design, execute, and analyze chromatography-based purification processes for mAbs, including Protein A, ion exchange, HIC, and related modalities.
  • Develop scalable, robust purification processes tailored to client molecules and manufacturing objectives.
  • Lead technology transfer activities with external manufacturing partners.
  • Prepare technical reports, protocols, and documentation to support regulatory submissions.
  • Work directly with leading biopharma clients to align on study design, timelines, and deliverables.
  • Deliver high-quality experimental data that supports client development programs and regulatory filings.
  • Act as a trusted scientific partner, helping clients resolve technical challenges and accelerate progress toward commercialization.
  • Manage daily lab operations, including equipment maintenance, inventory, and safety compliance.
  • Mentor junior scientists and research associates, supporting their technical growth and execution excellence.
  • Promote a culture of scientific rigor, operational discipline, and continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

  • M.S. in Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field with8+ yearsof relevant industry experience, or
  • Ph.D. with4+ yearsof experience in downstream process development for biologics.
  • Demonstrated expertise in preparative chromatography and antibody purification.
  • Proven ability to lead small scientific teams and manage lab operations.
  • Sponsorship is not offer for this role

Preferred Qualifications

  • Hands-on experience with AKTA systems, Unicorn software, and high-throughput screening platforms (e.g., Tecan Te-Chrom).
  • Proficiency in analytical techniques such as HPLC, SDS-PAGE, ELISA, UV spectroscopy.
  • Familiarity with tech transfer, cGMP/cGLP standards, and regulatory documentation.
  • Experience in client-facing or CDMO environments is a plus.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Working knowledge of statistical tools (e.g., JMP,) and data analysis software

Why This Role Matters

This is more than a lab-based leadership role-it's an opportunity to directly influence the development of biologic therapies that improve and save lives. You'll be working with some of the world's leading biopharma companies, helping them refine and scale their purification processes to bring innovative treatments to patients in need.

Annual or Hourly Compensation Range

The base salary range for this position is $107,600.00 - $161,500.00. This position is eligible for annual bonus pay based on performance, per plan terms. Many factors are taken into consideration when determining compensation, such as experience, education, training, geography, etc. We comply with all minimum wage and overtime laws.

Benefits

Ecolab strives to provide comprehensive and market-competitive benefits to meet the needs of our associates and their families.Click here to see our benefits.

If you are viewing this posting on a site other than our Ecolab Career website, view our benefits at jobs.ecolab.com/working-here.


Potential Customer Requirements Notice

To meet customer requirements and comply with local or state regulations, applicants for certain customer-facing roles may need to:

- Undergo additional background screens and/or drug/alcohol testing for customer credentialing.


Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Ecolab will provide reasonable accommodation (such as a qualified sign language interpreter or other personal assistance) with our application process upon request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you have a disability and require accommodation assistance in this application process, please visit the Recruiting Support link in the footer of each page of our career website.


What Ecolab employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Ecolab logo

About Ecolab

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ecolab is a global sustainability leader offering water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services that protect people and the resources vital to life.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1923