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Downstream Purification Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Valspec

Process Validation Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$70 - $80/hr

Upstream (cell culture/bioreactors), Downstream (purification/chromatography), or Clean Utilities (WFI, clean steam, process gases, and supporting utility systems). This person will partner closely ...

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Biologist (50849)

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

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 ...

Axle

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in guiding purification strategies for new vaccine or therapeutic mAb candidates (both internal to the downstream team and throughout the VPP) * Mentors junior ...

Azaaki Solutions

Be Seen First

Biomanufacturing Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$31.50/hr

... Downstream biologic production processes in a GMP environment in a Life Sciences Company ? Basic knowledge and understanding of purification processes ? Ability to obtain sufficient hands-on ...

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Downstream Purification information

See Washington salary details

$15

$28

$39

How much do downstream purification jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream purification in Washington is $28.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $32.69 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 Washington?

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Downstream Purification jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Downstream Purification job openings:

Downstream Purification jobs near you
Infographic showing various Downstream Purification job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,770 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Senior Downstream Bioprocess Engineer

Johns Hopkins University AppliedPhysicsLaboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description
Do you enjoy developing downstream purification processes for microbial production of small molecules and metabolites?
Do you want to apply your expertise in in downstream bioprocess engineering to pressing national security challenges?
Do you enjoy working as part of an interdisciplinary team of scientists to solve complex biotechnology challenges?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team in the Biological Sciences Group, here at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab.
We are seeking a downstream bioprocess engineer to help us develop scalable purification processes for microbial biomanufacturing. You'll join an interdisciplinary team of microbiologists, metabolic engineers, and chemists working together to develop innovative biotechnology solutions for national security. As the team's downstream processing expert, you'll work closely with colleagues across multiple disciplines to recover, purify, and characterize microbially produced small molecules and metabolites.
As part of the Biological Sciences Group, in the Research Exploratory Development Department, you will be at the forefront of APL's mission to provide impactful contributions to critical challenges. You will contribute to building outstanding expertise in molecular biology, in the pursuit of challenges in national security.
As a Senior Downstream Bioprocess Engineer you will...
  • Develop and optimize downstream processes for recovery and purification of microbially produced small molecules and metabolites.
  • Design and execute experiments to improve process performance and characterize biomanufacturing products using analytical chemistry techniques.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers to develop innovative biotechnology solutions for national security applications.
  • Lead technical efforts on internally and externally funded research projects, including project planning, execution, and communication of results.
  • Contribute to the growth of our research portfolio by developing new technical concepts, writing proposals, and building relationships with sponsors and collaborators.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field
  • 1+ year of postdoctoral research experience.
  • Have experience developing downstream processing methods for microbial production of small molecules or metabolites.
  • Have experience developing and applying analytical chemistry methods, including HPLC, LC/MS, MS, or related techniques.
  • Have experience designing, executing, and troubleshooting laboratory experiments for purification, characterization, and process optimization.
  • Have strong written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through publications, presentations, or related experience.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have experience engineering microbial metabolic pathways or microbial strain development.
  • Have experience with yeast or non-model microorganisms.
  • Have experience scaling microbial bioprocesses from bench to pilot scale.
  • Have experience with molecular biology techniques used to support bioprocess development
  • Have experience leading multidisciplinary research projects or developing research proposals.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at ;br>
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually

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