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Downstream Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Downstream Processing Operator

Augusta, GA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

The Downstream Processing Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes maintenance ...

The Downstream Processing Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes maintenance ...

The Downstream Processing Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes maintenance ...

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Downstream Processing information

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How much do downstream processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream processing 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Downstream Processing position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Downstream Processing, you typically need a background in biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, along with experience in purification and separation techniques. Familiarity with technical tools such as chromatography systems, filtration units, and process control software, as well as cGMP certification, is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient production, product quality, and compliance in highly regulated biopharmaceutical environments.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

In downstream processing and related fields, high-paying roles such as process engineers, quality managers, or technical specialists can reach or exceed $10,000 per month with relevant experience and industry knowledge. These positions often require technical skills, certifications, or on-the-job training rather than a formal degree, especially in manufacturing, biotech, or pharmaceutical environments.

What is the role of downstream processing?

Downstream processing in a job context involves the purification, formulation, and packaging of products, such as biopharmaceuticals or chemicals, after initial production. It requires skills in chromatography, filtration, and aseptic techniques to ensure product quality and compliance with regulatory standards.

What is the highest paying biotech job?

In downstream processing, senior roles such as Director of Downstream Processing or Vice President of Bioprocessing tend to be the highest paying, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and expertise in bioprocessing techniques and regulatory compliance.

What is the highest paying job in food engineering?

In food engineering, senior roles such as Food Processing Plant Managers or Food Technology Directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, with compensation influenced by company size and location.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Downstream Processing?

In Downstream Processing, your daily activities often include operating and optimizing purification systems, conducting in-process testing, and meticulously documenting process parameters and results. You’ll collaborate closely with upstream teams, quality control labs, and engineering staff to troubleshoot and improve workflows. Managing equipment maintenance, adhering to safety and compliance standards, and actively participating in process development projects are also key facets of the job. This hands-on role is essential for ensuring the purity and consistency of biopharmaceutical products.

What is a Downstream Processing job?

A Downstream Processing (DSP) job involves purifying and recovering biomolecules, such as proteins or vaccines, after fermentation or cell culture. Professionals in this role use techniques like filtration, chromatography, and centrifugation to ensure product purity and quality. They work in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and bioprocessing. Key responsibilities include optimizing purification processes, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

More about Downstream Processing jobs
What cities are hiring for Downstream Processing jobs? Cities with the most Downstream Processing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Downstream Processing jobs? The most popular types of Downstream Processing jobs are:
What states have the most Downstream Processing jobs? States with the most job openings for Downstream Processing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Downstream Processing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Downstream Processing Operator

Downstream Processing Operator

Manus Bio

Augusta, GA • On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Manus works across industries and value chains to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives better performing and more sustainable versions of complex molecules traditionally sourced from plants, animals, or fossil fuels. Our platform is proven to work across scales, bridging the Valley of Death between lab and manufacturing more efficiently and more reliably to deliver the benefits of synthetic biology today. We are seeking a highly motivated Fermentation Plant Operator. This person will be expected to play an integral part of Manus Bios manufacturing and process development team located in Augusta, GA.

The Downstream Processing Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes maintenance, equipment reliability, and operations. Creativity and decision-making skills are required. Must be able to maintain a good working relationship with all personnel. Work as a member of the fermentation plant team which includes assisting in the Pilot Plant. Controls, monitors, and measures fermentation processes as instructed. Abides by all safely, environmental, and quality requirements. Perform minor maintenance and duties related to product testing, including sampling.

Why work at Manus Bio:

  • Opportunity For motivated, results-oriented team members, our growth creates opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
  • Accountability You are given the resources you need to succeed and the freedom to make it happen; in return, we hold each other accountable for our high expectations.
  • Passion We love what we do and enjoy working with others who feel the same way. We embrace the challenge and hard work that come with working on the cutting edge.

Responsibilities:

Interface with production to provide resources to solve fermentation and product isolation problems and help evaluate fermentation experiments. This activity includes:

  • Prepare fermentation and downstream equipment in accordance to SOPs, this include equipment setup, media make up, equipment disassembly, cleaning, etc.
  • Collect samples during manufacturing process for analytical analysis.
  • Prepare all required batch records, reflect constantly changing experimental designs and ensure clear communication to the process development subject matter expert of the targeted design parameters.
  • Collect and review all batch records. Data reduction includes electronic data conversion into and formatting in Excel for purposes of trending key operational parameters. Data is reviewed and checked. Off-line analytical data is reviewed for accuracy, retesting if necessary. Final results are organized and distributed to the process development subject matter expert.
  • Coordinate day-to-day Fermentation Plant activities, including manufacturing scheduling conflicts, coordinating equipment maintenance and installation activities, troubleshooting process upsets, troubleshooting equipment and instrumentation problems, optimizing operations, addressing contamination issues, addressing downtime or other runtime losses.
  • Prepare SOP for new process or operations as needed.
  • Assist and provide hands-on support of Fermentation Plant maintenance activities, including rebuilding of probes and housings, changing out gear boxes on vessels, rebuilding valves, piping modifications, and modifying/fabricating new and existing equipment.
  • Maintain the upkeep of the Fermentation Plant equipment through the process of initiating work notifications/work orders and maintenance scheduling; Use your own tools to correct minor maintenance issues is encouraged.
  • Adhere to company EH&S policies and procedure. Ensure fermentation plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
  • Physical demand requirements are in excess of sedentary work due to inspection of equipment. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders.
  • Must be able to wear required protective equipment including respirators (if needed).
  • Work schedule is considered shift but will vary depending on manufacturing plan and and other extraordinary conditions.
  • Ensure Fermentation plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Required Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED equivalent.

  • Minimum of 3 years fermentation or related plant operator experience.
  • Must be able to follow minimal instructions and support safe work practices.
  • Must be an excellent team member with strong communication skills and a desire to work collaboratively.
  • Must be flexible with day-to-day duties and able to thrive in a start-up environment.
  • Must hold themselves to the highest professional and ethical standards.
  • Familiar with the production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment as well as microbiological and analytical laboratory procedures.
  • Demonstrates flexibility in job rotations/various assignments.
  • Basic PC skills which include Windows, Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualification and Working Style:

  • SAP skills
  • Certified Train the Trainer skills
  • Delta V controls experience

Job Type: Regular, Full-Time

Employee Status: Permanent