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Downstream Process Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer, Downstream

Frederick, CO ยท On-site

$124K - $194K/yr

Technical lead for downstream processes and unit operations. Responsible for process modeling and consulted on process fit and throughput assessments. * Responsible for process design review for ...

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Downstream Process information

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How much do downstream process jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream process in the United States is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.12 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.
More about Downstream Process jobs
What cities are hiring for Downstream Process jobs? Cities with the most Downstream Process job openings:
What states have the most Downstream Process jobs? States with the most job openings for Downstream Process jobs include:
Infographic showing various Downstream Process job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Senior Process Engineer - Downstream (Biologics & Peptides)

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

Boulder, CO โ€ข On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Senior Process Engineer โ€“ Downstream (Biologics & Peptides)

Location: Boulder, CO (100% Onsite)

Duration: 6 Months + Extensions

Start Date: ASAP

Job Summary

We are seeking a Senior Process Engineer with strong expertise in downstream processing to support the development, scale-up, and commercialization of biologics and peptide-based therapeutics. This role will focus on designing, optimizing, and implementing purification processes and manufacturing systems within a GMP-regulated environment.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with chromatography and tangential flow filtration (TFF) technologies, along with a proven track record supporting process scale-up, equipment qualification, and manufacturing startup activities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead downstream process development and optimization activities for biologics and peptide products
  • Design, specify, and support implementation of purification systems including chromatography and TFF skids
  • Support process scale-up from development through pilot and commercial manufacturing
  • Drive startup, commissioning, qualification, and troubleshooting of downstream manufacturing equipment
  • Develop and execute process validation and verification strategies aligned with GMP and regulatory requirements
  • Collaborate with MSAT, Upstream, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to ensure process robustness and consistency
  • Author and review technical documentation including process descriptions, validation protocols, and regulatory support documents
  • Serve as a technical SME for downstream purification operations and technologies
  • Mentor junior engineers and support continuous improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelorโ€™s, Masterโ€™s, or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or related field
  • 8+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical process engineering with strong downstream processing expertise
  • Hands-on experience with:
  • Chromatography systems (affinity, ion exchange, HIC, etc.)
  • Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) systems
  • Experience supporting equipment startup, commissioning, and qualification activities
  • Strong understanding of process validation and GMP manufacturing environments
  • Experience supporting or leading tech transfer and process scale-up activities
  • Strong troubleshooting, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills