ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Downstream Purification Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Viltis

Be Seen First

Staff Engineer, Downstream Process Development & Manufacturing

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$186K - $218K/yr

Position Summary The Staff Engineer will provide technical leadership across downstream purification, process development, technology transfer, process validation, GMP manufacturing support, and ...

Kinetic Personnel Group

Be Seen First

Upstream, Formulation & Downstream Manufacturing Associate

Tustin, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Support downstream purification and processing activities. * Assist with filtration, chromatography, centrifugation, and related manufacturing processes. * Prepare and stage materials and equipment ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDownstream Purification JobsDownstream Purification Jobs in California

Downstream Purification information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$34

How much do downstream purification jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream purification in California is $24.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in a downstream purification role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Downstream Purification often encounter challenges such as maintaining product yield and purity, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adapting to process variability. Addressing these requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and close collaboration with upstream teams and quality assurance. Continuous training on the latest purification technologies and strict adherence to standard operating procedures also help minimize errors and improve efficiency in the production process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in downstream purification, and why are they important?

To excel in Downstream Purification, you need a solid background in biochemistry or chemical engineering, with experience in protein purification techniques and a relevant degree. Familiarity with chromatography systems (e.g., AKTA), filtration technologies, and good manufacturing practice (GMP) certification is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the efficient and reliable production of high-purity biopharmaceutical products, critical for product quality and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Downstream Purification vs Downstream Processing?

AspectDownstream PurificationDownstream Processing
FocusPurifying specific products from a mixtureOverall process including purification and initial recovery
CredentialsTypically requires bioprocessing or biotech certificationsSimilar credentials, often overlapping
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, clean rooms, manufacturing facilitiesLabs and production plants
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceutical manufacturingBiotech, pharmaceutical, and bioprocessing industries

Downstream Purification is a specialized part of the broader Downstream Processing. While downstream processing includes all steps from initial product recovery to purification, downstream purification specifically focuses on isolating and purifying the target product. Both roles often require similar skills and certifications, and they operate in comparable environments within biotech and pharmaceutical industries.

What are popular job titles related to Downstream Purification jobs in California?

For Downstream Purification jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Downstream Purification jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Downstream Purification jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Downstream Purification jobs?

Cities in California with the most Downstream Purification job openings:

Downstream Purification jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Purification job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,210 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Downstream Process Development Associate - Gene Therapy Purification 3656143

Axiom Path

San Diego, CA • On-site

$80 - $84.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Be Part Of A Dynamic Team

Join a growing gene therapy organization supporting the development of innovative therapeutic programs through advanced process development and purification technologies. This team operates in a collaborative, startup-style environment where scientists work closely together to develop and optimize processes that support future manufacturing capabilities.

The successful candidate will join a hands-on process development group focused on downstream purification activities, laboratory execution, and advancing gene therapy programs through critical development milestones.

What's In Store For You

  • Engagement: W2 only (no C2C/1099)
  • Full-time onsite laboratory opportunity in San Diego, California.
  • Opportunity to contribute directly to gene therapy process development activities.
  • Exposure to advanced downstream purification technologies and specialized laboratory equipment.
  • Work alongside experienced scientists in a collaborative and evolving biotech environment.
  • Potential contract extension or future full-time consideration based on business needs and performance.

How You Will Make An Impact

  • Execute downstream process development activities supporting gene therapy programs.
  • Operate chromatography systems, tangential flow filtration (TFF), ultrafiltration, and depth filtration equipment.
  • Support purification process development studies and laboratory experimentation.
  • Generate experimental data and contribute to process optimization activities.
  • Troubleshoot equipment operation and support successful execution of development runs.
  • Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional partners to achieve project goals.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and communicate study results effectively.
  • Support continued development of downstream processing capabilities within a growing organization.

Are you an experienced downstream process development professional ready to make an impact?

  • Approximately 4–6 years of hands-on downstream process development experience preferred.
  • Experience operating chromatography systems in a laboratory environment.
  • Hands-on experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF) systems.
  • Experience with ultrafiltration and depth filtration processes.
  • Background in gene therapy, biologics, bioprocess development, or related purification environments preferred.
  • Ability to independently execute laboratory activities after onboarding and training.
  • Experience in process development environments strongly preferred; GMP experience is helpful but not required.
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline preferred, although equivalent hands-on experience may be considered.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot laboratory equipment and processes.
  • Collaborative communication style aligned with a team-focused scientific environment.
  • Comfortable working onsite five days per week in San Diego.