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Protein Expression Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Perform protein expression and purification as needed to support testing workflows (secondary focus, plate-based for FPLC). * Collaborate with upstream teams (Protein Design, Strain Design, Genetic ...

Scientist, Protein Testing

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Perform protein expression and purification as needed to support testing workflows (secondary focus, plate-based for FPLC). * Collaborate with upstream teams (Protein Design, Strain Design, Genetic ...

Research Scientist I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Experience in protein expression and purification * Demonstrated ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, adapt to evolving priorities, and manage multiple concurrent projects

Research Scientist/Engr 4

Seattle, WA · On-site

$99.44 - $122.12/hr

... protein subunit and mRNA vaccines based on viral surface glycoproteins (construct design, recombinant expression in mammalian cells, purification, and stability assays),20% Characterize protein ...

Protein expression, purification, and QC - 20% Express and purify polymerases, binders, and optogenetic protein components (primarily from bacteria) using affinity chromatography/FPLC and standard QC ...

Cryo-electron microscopy, virology assays (pseudotyped virus generation, cellular entry and neutralization assays), protein expression in mammalian cells and purification Equivalent education and/or ...

Experience with protein expression, purification, and cryo-EM sample optimization. Strong understanding of structural biology principles and their application to protein design and analysis.

... expression, and LIMS/data infrastructure. Define platform performance metrics (throughput ... Stay current on the protein engineering, display technology, and lab automation landscape; bring ...

Director, Protein Engineering

Redmond, WA · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

... expression, and LIMS/data infrastructure. Define platform performance metrics (throughput ... Stay current on the protein engineering, display technology, and lab automation landscape; bring ...

Strong scientific background in recombinant protein expression, cell line development, cellular metabolism, and media optimization. * Experience in both early- and late-stage bioreactor operations ...

Strong scientific background in recombinant protein expression, cell line development, cellular metabolism, and media optimization. * Experience in both early- and late-stage bioreactor operations ...

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Protein Expression information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$18

$39

$71

How much do protein expression jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for protein expression in Seattle, WA is $39.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.99 and $47.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is protein expression?

Protein expression refers to the process by which proteins are synthesized, modified, and regulated in living organisms. In biotechnology and research, protein expression often means the artificial production of specific proteins in host cells, such as bacteria, yeast, or mammalian cells, using recombinant DNA technology. This process is crucial for studying protein function, developing pharmaceuticals, and producing enzymes or other protein-based products. The choice of expression system depends on factors like the protein's complexity and the need for post-translational modifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a protein expression scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protein Expression Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell culture, often supported by a relevant degree (such as in biology, biochemistry, or biotechnology). Familiarity with expression systems (E. coli, yeast, insect, or mammalian cells), chromatography, and analytical tools like SDS-PAGE and Western blot is essential, and experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or certifications in laboratory safety can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate protein production, efficient troubleshooting, and clear collaboration, which are crucial for successful research and development in biotechnology and pharmaceutical settings.

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

Professionals in Protein Expression often encounter challenges such as optimizing expression levels, ensuring protein solubility, and maintaining protein functionality. Troubleshooting requires a strong understanding of expression systems (bacterial, yeast, insect, or mammalian), vector design, and purification methods. Collaboration with molecular biologists and biochemists is essential to troubleshoot issues and adapt protocols, while ongoing learning about new expression technologies can help address complex problems and enhance productivity.

What is the difference between Protein Expression vs Protein Purification?

AspectProtein ExpressionProtein Purification
Primary FocusProducing proteins within cells or systemsIsolating and cleaning proteins from mixtures
Work EnvironmentLaboratories involving genetic engineering and cell cultureLaboratories focused on protein isolation and analysis
Required SkillsMolecular biology, cloning, cell cultureChromatography, protein analysis, assay techniques
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, researchBiotech, pharmaceuticals, research

Protein Expression involves creating proteins within cells using genetic techniques, while Protein Purification focuses on isolating and refining those proteins for study or application. Both roles are essential in biotech and research settings, often overlapping but distinct in their primary objectives.

Infographic showing various Protein Expression job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,957 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Associate Director/Director, Protein Sciences

Bothell, WA • On-site

Systimmune
Biotechnology Research and Development • 1 - 10 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Redmond, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials. SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.
 
We are seeking an Associate Director or Director of Protein Sciences to lead antibody target protein expression, purification, and characterization in support of oncology biologics programs from early discovery through IND-enabling activities. This role will build and lead a team responsible for delivering high-quality protein material in functionalized formats suitable for evaluation of monoclonal, bispecific, and multi-specific antibodies and ADC-ready molecules, and will partner closely with Protein Engineering, Antibody Discovery, Analytical Sciences, and external partners to advance programs from concept to candidate selection and IND submission.
The ideal candidate brings deep hands-on expertise in mammalian protein expression, purification of protein complexes, and biophysical characterization, structural biology along with strong scientific judgment and people leadership skills. This individual will serve as a technical and operational hub for critical protein production across the discovery portfolio, ensuring that molecule quality, structural reagent relevance, and timelines meet the needs of fast-moving oncology programs. A key aspect of this role is enabling antibody structural and functional characterization through protein target engineering and rigorous characterization. 
This role is full-time onsite at our Bothell, WA location.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage the Protein Sciences group, including hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development of scientists and research associates
  • Serve as the target protein science subject-matter expert on cross-functional program teams; present strategy, results, and risk assessments to senior leadership
  • Lead the Protein Sciences function responsible for end-to-end protein production workflows, including construct design, transient and stable mammalian expression (HEK293, CHO), high-throughput and preparative purification, and quality control
  • Direct purification process development for complex membrane proteins, nano-disc, and multi-molecule complexes, resolve antibody bindings site, PPI site occlusions and functional site prediction.
  • Establish and oversee biochemical and biophysical characterization capabilities (SEC, HPLC/UPLC, CE-SDS, cIEF, DSF/DSC, SPR/BLI, mass spectrometry) to confirm identity, purity, stability, and binding
  • Design and implement automation, high-throughput screening workflows, and structured data capture to increase departmental capacity, quality, and reproducibility
  • Stay current with advances in protein engineering, expression technologies, and analytical methods, and champion adoption of new technologies where they add value

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in biochemistry, protein chemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering, or a related field; M.S. or B.S. with commensurate additional experience will be considered
  • 8+ years (Director) or 6+ years (Associate Director) of relevant industry experience in biologics discovery and development
  • 3+ years of people-management experience leading scientists in a protein sciences, protein production, or biologics discovery setting
  • Deep hands-on expertise in mammalian expression systems and multi-modal antibody purification (Protein A/L, ion exchange, HIC, SEC, mixed-mode)
  • Demonstrated experience producing and characterizing complex biologics, including:
  • Membrane proteins
  • Dimer and heterodimer complexes
  • Engineered molecules for proving PPI and antibody binding sites
  • Strong working knowledge of biophysical characterization techniques and data interpretation (SPR/BLI, SEC-MALS, DSF/DSC, mass spectrometry, capillary electrophoresis)
  • Proven track record of advancing molecules from discovery through candidate selection and supporting IND-enabling activities
  • Excellent scientific judgment, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, milestone-driven environment
Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with high-throughput automation platforms (liquid handlers, parallel purification systems) and structured data capture (ELN/LIMS)
  • Experience in oncology biologics and understanding of tumor-targeting antibody design principles
  • Mandarin-English Bilingual Ability
  • Prior contribution to regulatory filings (IND/IMPD) and interactions with process development or quality organizations
Core Competencies
  • Scientific rigor with strong operational execution
  • Team leadership and talent development
  • Cross-functional collaboration and influence
  • Technical problem-solving and troubleshooting
  • Agility in a dynamic R&D environment
  • Strong sense of ownership and accountability
Success in this role will be defined by the ability to:
  • Deliver high-quality protein reagents and candidate molecules on program timelines
  • Build and develop a scalable, high-performing Protein Sciences team and infrastructure
  • De-risk candidate molecules through rigorous characterization and developability assessment
  • Build trust across functions as a strategic and operational partner
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
  • May need to work outside of standard working hours at times
  • This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for working hours, with flexibility to work start time. The work location for this role is in Bothell, WA

Compensation and Benefits
The expected base salary range for this position is $180,000 - $240,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s level qualifications, experience, and skills.
While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.
 
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.
 
We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.
 
SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.

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