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Merck Downstream Process Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lonza

Scientist II, Downstream

Houston, TX · On-site

Scientist II, Downstream Location: This is an on-site position located in Pearland, TX. The purpose ... The ideal candidate will be responsible for leading new process development and improving existing ...

MEDVACON

Aseptic Process Development - CDMO

IN · On-site

Our leading CDMO client is eager to hire an Aseptic Downstream Process Development SME for their Indianapolis site. This is a full-time role directly with the client - an outstanding opportunity to ...

Agilent

Process Engineer, Downstream

Frederick, CO · On-site

$124K - $194K/yr

Support Chemical Development in the development, characterization, and scaleup of innovative ... downstream unit operations and processes including: Column packing, preparative liquid ...

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Merck Downstream Process Development information

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How much do merck downstream process development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for merck downstream process development in the United States is $33.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.64 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Downstream Process Development at Merck, and why are they important?

To thrive in Merck Downstream Process Development, you need a solid background in biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, typically with a bachelor's or advanced degree and relevant laboratory experience. Expertise in chromatography, filtration systems, and data analysis software, as well as familiarity with GMP regulations, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies are crucial for developing efficient, scalable purification processes that ensure product quality and compliance in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

What are some typical challenges faced in Merck Downstream Process Development, and how can new team members prepare for them?

In Merck Downstream Process Development, common challenges include optimizing purification processes to maximize yield and product quality while maintaining scalability and regulatory compliance. New team members may encounter complex troubleshooting when scaling lab protocols to pilot or commercial production. Collaboration with upstream teams, analytical scientists, and quality assurance is crucial for success. To prepare, candidates should familiarize themselves with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), chromatography techniques, and effective cross-functional communication strategies.

What is Downstream Process Development at Merck?

Downstream Process Development at Merck refers to the set of activities focused on purifying and refining biological products, such as proteins or vaccines, after they have been produced during upstream processes. This involves steps like filtration, chromatography, and formulation to ensure the final product is safe, effective, and meets regulatory standards. Scientists and engineers in this area work to optimize these processes for high yield, purity, and scalability. At Merck, this work is critical for bringing biopharmaceutical products from the laboratory to commercial manufacturing.

What is the difference between Merck Downstream Process Development vs Merck Upstream Process Development?

AspectMerck Downstream Process DevelopmentMerck Upstream Process Development
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratory and manufacturing settings focused on purification and polishing of bioproductsLaboratory and manufacturing settings focused on cell culture and bioreactor operations
Industry UsageUsed in biopharmaceutical manufacturing to refine and purify productsUsed in biopharmaceutical manufacturing to produce and optimize cell cultures

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments but focus on different stages of bioprocessing. Downstream process development centers on purification, while upstream focuses on cell growth and bioreactor management. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

Infographic showing various Merck Downstream Process Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,060 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
Sr. Scientist, Downstream and Biologics Formulation Development

Sr. Scientist, Downstream and Biologics Formulation Development

Avid Bioservices

Tustin, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Looking to join a passionate team dedicated to developing and manufacturing life-saving biopharmaceuticals? Avid Bioservices is a leading clinical and commercial biologics CDMO focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients and improve patient outcomes.
Your Role:
Avid is seeking a highly motivated and technically strong Sr. Scientist, Downstream and Biologics Formulation Development to lead biologics formulation development while contributing to integrated downstream process development within a fast-paced, client-facing environment. This role is responsible for defining formulation strategies, executing technical studies, and supporting cross-functional integration as the capability expands. Additional responsibilities include designing downstream purification processes for protein-based biologics, viral clearance studies, scale-down and scale-up activities, and technology transfer to manufacturing. The individual will collaborate closely with Cell Line Development, Upstream Process Development, Analytical Sciences, MSAT, DS/DP Manufacturing, Program Management, and external partners to support client programs.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead formulation development for biologics, including pre-formulation assessments, excipient screening, and stability studies. Demonstrated experience in formulation development for complex biologic modalities-including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)-with understanding of modality-specific stability and developability challenges is highly advantageous.
  • Lead downstream process development for biologics, including capture chromatography, polishing chromatography, viral inactivation/filtration, and tangential flow filtration (TFF).
  • Extensive hands-on experience with analytical techniques for protein characterization, including DLS, DSF, SEC, CE, rheology, and spectroscopy. Design and interpret analytical testing strategies including HPLC (SEC & IEX), CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE, UV spectroscopy, and other biophysical assays to support process development and formulation studies.
  • Expertise in developing high concentration protein formulations and resolving issues such as aggregation, viscosity, and solubility. Able to identify and mitigate formulation risks including precipitation and chemical degradation.
  • Design experiments, analyze data, and prepare technical protocols, reports, and development summaries.
  • Establish and drive scientific strategy, workflows, and best practices for early- to late-stage biologics formulation development, with the ability to operate independently in a dynamic, fast-paced, client-facing environment with evolving priorities.
  • Serve as a technical subject matter expert (SME) in client engagements, including proposals, presentations, and project reviews; prior line management or informal leadership experience is advantageous.
  • Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to align project timelines, priorities, and resource planning.
  • Mentor and develop junior scientists and technical staff, and support onboarding of new team members.
  • Evaluate and implement new technologies and platform approaches to enhance internal capabilities and drive innovation.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable quality, regulatory, and safety standards.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required to support evolving business and project needs.
  • Occasional travel may be required (by land or air) to attend conferences, seminars, off-site client meetings, and marketing events as needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree/PhD degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related field and minimum 4-6 years of relevant experience and demonstrated working knowledge of scientific principles.
  • Prior experience in formulation development, stability studies, and analytical characterization of biologics or strong background in biochemical and biophysical characterization of proteins with deep understanding of protein structure and function.
  • Experience in development of ultra-high concentration and pre-developability assessment
  • Proven record of strong technical writing and communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic, cross-functional environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related field with 4-6 years of industry experience, or M.S. with 6-10 years of experience.
  • Prior experience in formulations process development and/or downstream process development of biologics is a plus.
  • Experience mentoring or leading scientific staff preferred.
  • Candidates with strong expertise in either biologics formulation development or downstream process development will be considered, with opportunities to contribute across both areas.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
This role is a full-time onsite position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm PST unless otherwise stated by Supervisor. The employee must also have the ability to work overtime and/or weekends when necessary.
Compensation:
We offer competitive compensation packages for this role, including a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off.
The compensation range for this role is $147,200-$184,000annually depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, we offer opportunities for career growth and development as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Who you are:
  • You have a "bring it on!" team player approach and an unshakable positive attitude, always ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
  • Your written and verbal skills are out of this world, and you communicate with clarity and confidence.
  • You have exceptional multitasking skills and an unparalleled attention to detail that ensure the smooth running of everything.
  • You are a master at building relationships, capable of establishing connections with anyone, be it team members, clients, vendors, or suppliers.
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
In this dynamic role, expect a blend of regular activities like sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional physically engaging tasks such as lifting objects up to 25 pounds. The work environment might expose you to electrical shocks, toxic chemicals, vibrations, or loud noise levels occasionally. However, reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with different abilities to perform effectively, ensuring a supportive and adaptable work setting. Your visual acuity, including close, distance, and color vision, will be essential in navigating through the diverse day-to-day demands of this position.
Employment Type: Full-Time

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