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Process Development Associate Jobs in Solana Beach, CA

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Process Development Associate information

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How much do process development associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for process development associate in Solana Beach, CA is $35.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.18 and $43.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process development associate?

To thrive as a Process Development Associate, you need a strong background in biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Experience with laboratory instrumentation, process optimization tools, and familiarity with regulatory standards such as GMP are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient process design, regulatory compliance, and successful scale-up in manufacturing environments.

What are the primary challenges faced by a process development associate when scaling up laboratory processes to manufacturing scale?

A Process Development Associate often encounters challenges in translating small-scale laboratory protocols into large-scale manufacturing processes. Variations in equipment, raw material quality, and environmental conditions can impact reproducibility and efficiency. Addressing these issues requires strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and engineering to ensure smooth technology transfer and consistent product quality.

What is the difference between Process Development Associate vs Process Engineer?

AspectProcess Development AssociateProcess Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field; often some experience in process developmentBachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering or related; more emphasis on engineering principles
Work EnvironmentLaboratory and pilot plant settings, focused on process research and developmentManufacturing plants, production lines, and process optimization environments
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech, and chemical industries; entry to mid-level rolesChemical, manufacturing, and process industries; more senior roles in process optimization

The Process Development Associate primarily focuses on developing and optimizing new processes in lab and pilot settings, often working closely with R&D teams. In contrast, the Process Engineer applies engineering principles to scale up processes, improve manufacturing efficiency, and troubleshoot production issues. While both roles require a background in chemical or process engineering, the Process Development Associate is more research-oriented, whereas the Process Engineer emphasizes process implementation and optimization in production environments.

What is a process development associate job description?

A process development associate is responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing manufacturing or operational processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They often work with cross-functional teams, utilize data analysis tools, and follow regulatory standards to develop scalable processes. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of industry-specific regulations are essential for this role.

What is a process development associate?

A process development associate is a professional responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing manufacturing or operational processes to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. They often work with cross-functional teams, utilize data analysis tools, and may require knowledge of regulatory standards and process validation techniques.

What cities near Solana Beach, CA are hiring for Process Development Associate jobs?

Cities near Solana Beach, CA with the most Process Development Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Process Development Associate job openings in Solana Beach, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,944 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Downstream Process Development Associate - Gene Therapy Purification 3656143

San Diego, CA • On-site

Axiom Path
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

$80 - $84.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 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.