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Downstream Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role supports Henkel's Downstream IPR portfolio, including Stopaq, CSNRI Composites, Mascoat, Highland, and U.S. Coatings. The position is highly technical and fieldfocused, responsible for ...

This role supports Henkel's Downstream IPR portfolio, including Stopaq, CSNRI Composites, Mascoat, Highland, and U.S. Coatings. The position is highly technical and fieldfocused, responsible for ...

Scientist II, Downstream Location: This is an on-site position located in Pearland, TX. The purpose of this role is to work in a high performing, cross functional team with the goal of driving ...

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Downstream information

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$15

$24

$32

How much do downstream jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for downstream in the United States is $24.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Downstream Oil & Gas role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Downstream Oil & Gas role, you need a strong background in chemical or process engineering, safety protocols, and operational management, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-specific software like Aspen HYSYS, distributed control systems (DCS), and certifications such as OSHA or API are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for optimizing processes and ensuring team safety. These competencies are essential for maintaining regulatory compliance, maximizing operational efficiency, and minimizing risks in refining and petrochemical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in downstream oil and gas operations?

Professionals in downstream oil and gas operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety and environmental compliance, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and managing complex supply chains. The role typically involves collaborating closely with engineering, logistics, and marketing teams to ensure efficient refining, distribution, and sale of petroleum products. Navigating fluctuating market demands and regulatory requirements can also be demanding, but these challenges offer valuable opportunities for skill development and career advancement within the industry.

What are downstream jobs in the oil and gas industry?

Downstream jobs refer to positions involved in the final stages of the oil and gas production process, including refining, distribution, and marketing of petroleum products. Employees in downstream roles work in refineries, chemical plants, or with companies that handle the sale and transportation of finished products like gasoline, diesel, and lubricants. These jobs are essential for ensuring that crude oil and natural gas are transformed into usable products and delivered safely to consumers and businesses.

What is the difference between Downstream vs Upstream?

AspectDownstreamUpstream
Primary FocusRefining, processing, and marketing finished petroleum productsExploring, extracting, and producing crude oil and natural gas
Work EnvironmentRefineries, chemical plants, marketing officesOil rigs, drilling sites, exploration fields
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, safety certifications, technical trainingGeology, petroleum engineering degrees, safety certifications
Industry UsageRefining and marketing sectors of oil and gas industryExploration and production sectors of oil and gas industry

Downstream and Upstream are two key segments of the oil and gas industry. Downstream involves refining crude oil into usable products and marketing them, while Upstream focuses on exploring and extracting oil and natural gas. Both roles require specialized credentials and operate in different environments, but they are interconnected parts of the energy supply chain.

More about Downstream jobs
What cities are hiring for Downstream jobs? Cities with the most Downstream job openings:
What states have the most Downstream jobs? States with the most job openings for Downstream jobs include:
Infographic showing various Downstream job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,107 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Downstream Purification Scientist

Globalchannelmanagement

Boston, MA

$46 - $47/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Downstream Purification Scientist needs 2 years of hands-on purification experience in an academic or industry setting

Downstream Purification Scientist requires:

  • Hands-on experience in Cesium chloride (CsCl) density gradient ultracentrifugation, ion-exchange chromatography, affinity purification, and tangential flow filtration (TFF), with a strong understanding of purification principles and data analysis.
  • Master's degree in biology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, biotechnology, or related field.
  • AAV or other viral vector CsCl density gradient and column purification.
  • Experience with AKTA systems and Unicorn software.

Downstream Purification Scientist duties:

  • Execute purification processes including CsCl density gradient ultracentrifugation, affinity chromatography (e.g., AVB, CaptureSelect), ion-exchange chromatography (AEX, CEX), and other polishing steps.
  • Operate AKTA systems (Avant, Pure, or Pilot) for small- to large-scale purification runs. Perform TFF operations for buffer exchange and concentration of intermediate or final products.
  • Support experimental design, data collection, and documentation following established procedures and GMP/GLP best practices.
  • Assist in troubleshooting and optimization of purification processes.
  • Analyze in-process and purified samples using relevant analytical methods (e.g., UV, SDS-PAGE, ddPCR, ELISA, or HPLC).
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with upstream, analytical, and manufacturing teams.
  • Maintain lab equipment, manage buffers and column inventory, and ensure compliance with safety and documentation standards.