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Downstream Process Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Quality Agents, LLC

Process Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in biotech or pharmaceutical process engineering, with a focus on upstream, downstream or cell therapy operations. Key Responsibilities Support the ...

Quality Agents

Process Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in biotech or pharmaceutical process engineering, with a focus on upstream, downstream or cell therapy operations. Key Responsibilities Support the ...

Quality Agents, LLC

Process Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in biotech or pharmaceutical process engineering, with a focus on upstream, downstream or cell therapy operations. Key Responsibilities • Support the ...

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Biologist (50849)

Gaithersburg, MD

Develop downstream (purification) processes, under the supervision of a project lead scientist, for recombinant proteins, virus vaccines, and virus-like particles (VLP) that may be used as clinical ...

nTech Workforce

Business Process Specialist

Columbia, MD · Hybrid

Key Responsibilities • Lead multi-team approaches to evaluate, map, and optimize end-to-end business processes from initial data entry down to downstream impacts. • Formulate strategies to change ...

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How much do downstream process jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream process in Washington is $27.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $31.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Downstream Process jobs in Washington? For Downstream Process jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Downstream Process jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Downstream Process jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Downstream Process jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Downstream Process job openings:
Downstream Process jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Process job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 91% Full Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,123 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
Senior Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development, Downstream

Senior Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development, Downstream

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$98.90K - $135.10K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

AstraZeneca rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 70 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

AstraZeneca is looking for a highly motivated and experienced Senior Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development (Downstream). The candidate will play a critical role in building and leading a high-performing team that accelerates AstraZeneca's emerging Cell Therapy modalities portfolio. You will design, execute, and optimize scalable Lentiviral Vector (LVV) downstream purification processes with a primary focus on clinical and commercial scales. You will contribute hands-on to experimental design, process characterization, and scale-up/tech transfer activities from research through INDenabling, partnering closely with Research, Analytical Development, CMC, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Quality, and external CDMOs. This position is based in Gaithersburg, MD.
Key Responsibilities
  • Downstream Process Development: Plan and perform experiments to develop scalable, cost-effective LVV purification processes for ex vivo and in vivo applications, targeting yield, purity, potency, and consistency.

  • Unit Operations Execution: Execute and optimize clarification, chromatography, UF/DF/TFF, sterile filtration, and formulation/fill-related steps; define phase-appropriate in-process controls and operating ranges.

  • Process Characterization & Data Analysis: Design and analyze studies (including DOE) to identify CPPs/CMAs, establish design space, and justify control strategies; trend performance, conduct troubleshooting and root cause analysis, and recommend corrective actions.

  • Scale-Up, Scale-Down & Tech Transfer Support: Develop representative scale-down models; support scale-up to pilot, clinical, and commercial-relevant equipment; prepare technical transfer documents and assist transfers to internal GMP sites and CDMOs.

  • Novel Technologies & Continuous Improvement: Evaluate and implement next-generation purification technologies and consumables to improve efficiency, robustness, and product quality; contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

  • Documentation & Compliance: Author high-quality protocols, reports, batch records, and development summaries; support drafting of CMC content for regulatory submissions (e.g., IND) and align practices with cGMP and Quality systems expectations.

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with upstream PD and Analytical Development to link process parameters with product quality attributes (e.g., titer, infectivity/potency, residuals/impurities); collaborate with Manufacturing and Quality on operational feasibility and compliance.

Qualifications
  • Education: Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field with 1+ years of industry experience; OR M.S. with 4+ years; OR B.S. with 5+ years of hands-on industry experience.

  • Experience: Hands-on downstream process development for LVV (preferred) or other viral vectors/biologics; familiarity with clinical/commercial scale considerations and tech transfer.

  • Technical Expertise: Practical proficiency in clarification, chromatography, UF/DF/TFF, sterile filtration, and formulation; understanding of viral vector-specific impurity profiles (host cell proteins/DNA, process residuals) and strategies to control them.

  • Data & Risk Tools: Working knowledge of statistical analysis and DOE; familiarity with QbD principles, risk assessments (e.g., FMEA), and process justification.

  • GMP & Regulatory: Understanding of cGMP and Quality systems; familiarity with FDA/EMA guidance relevant to gene and cell therapy; experience contributing to CMC sections of regulatory filings is a plus.

  • Communication & Collaboration: Strong written and verbal communication; ability to work effectively in cross-functional, matrixed teams; demonstrated problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience scaling LVV or other viral vector/biologic purification processes from preclinical to clinical/commercial-relevant equipment and consumables.

  • Experience supporting tech transfer and implementation at internal sites and CDMOs.

  • Exposure to PAT/digital tools for process monitoring and data integrity; experience with knowledge management systems.

  • Demonstrated innovation in evaluating/implementing next-generation purification technologies.

At AstraZeneca, we are at the forefront of innovation with constant new products and launches. Our dynamic environment encourages collaboration and problem-solving as we strive to deliver life-changing medicines. We embrace challenges in rapidly changing markets by continuously seeking better ways to deliver medicines to patients. Our team is diverse and connected globally, working together to push the boundaries of supply chain excellence. With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to doing things the right way, we offer opportunities for growth and development in a supportive environment.
Join us in making a difference-apply today!
The annual base pay for this position ranges from $108,473.60 - $162,710.40. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
Date Posted
20-May-2026
Closing Date
28-May-2026
Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

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