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Upstream Engineering Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Forge Nano

Director of Process Engineering

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Director will play a critical role in building and evolving process engineering capabilities to support production ramp, while managing variability associated with upstream supplier-provided ...

Forge Nano

Director of Process Engineering

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Director will play a critical role in building and evolving process engineering capabilities to support production ramp, while managing variability associated with upstream supplier-provided ...

DivIHN

Process Engineer Pharmaceuticals I

NC · On-site

This role is execution-focused, supporting upstream and downstream manufacturing operations ... Required Qualifications * BS or MS degree in a biological or engineering discipline required ...

Redhat

Principal Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$151K - $249K/yr

Upstream Influence: Contribute to and influence upstream AI/ML communities to steer the evolution ... Engineering Excellence: Drive AI integration within the software development lifecycle (SDLC ...

Novartis

Principal Engineer, MS&T

Durham, NC

$126K - $234K/yr

As a Principal Engineer, MS&T, you will serve as a scientific and technical leader for upstream processes, bringing deep expertise in gene therapy manufacturing to support innovation, troubleshoot ...

CAPTRUST

Analytics Engineer

Raleigh, NC

This role owns the dbt analytics transformation layer and dbt project stewardship, and partners with Data Engineering on upstream pipelines and data shaping to ensure analytics-ready inputs. This ...

Intellectt INC

CQV Engineer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

Collaborate with engineering, automation, quality, and operations teams. * Ensure compliance with ... Experience with greenfield projects and upstream/downstream equipment. * Hands-on experience with ...

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All JobsUpstream Engineering JobsUpstream Engineering Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Upstream Engineering information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$31.6K

$61.2K

$92.8K

How much do upstream engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for upstream engineering in Raleigh, NC is $61,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by upstream engineers when working on oil and gas exploration projects?

Upstream engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable geological formations, fluctuating commodity prices, and logistical complexities in remote locations. They must collaborate closely with geologists, drilling teams, and field personnel to adapt to changing conditions and ensure safe, efficient extraction. Managing project timelines while adhering to environmental and safety regulations is also a significant aspect of the role. Overcoming these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication across multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Upstream Engineering vs Reservoir Engineering?

AspectUpstream EngineeringReservoir Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering or related field; often requires professional engineering licenseBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering, Reservoir Engineering, or Geosciences; often requires similar certifications
Work EnvironmentField operations, drilling sites, and production facilitiesReservoir simulation labs, office-based analysis, and field data interpretation
Industry UsageExploration, drilling, and production of oil and gasReservoir performance analysis and recovery optimization

Upstream Engineering focuses on the exploration, drilling, and production of oil and gas, involving field operations and equipment. Reservoir Engineering specializes in analyzing subsurface reservoirs to maximize hydrocarbon recovery through simulation and modeling. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, their work environments and primary responsibilities differ significantly.

What is upstream engineering?

Upstream engineering refers to the branch of engineering focused on the exploration and production of oil and natural gas. It involves locating oil and gas reserves, drilling wells, and designing the extraction processes needed to bring these resources to the surface. Upstream engineers work with geologists, drillers, and other professionals to ensure efficient and safe operations. This field is critical to the energy industry and requires expertise in geology, reservoir engineering, and drilling technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Upstream Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Upstream Engineer, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering, geoscience, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications. Familiarity with reservoir modeling software, drilling technologies, and data analysis tools such as Petrel, Eclipse, or Python is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for optimizing resource extraction, ensuring operational safety, and maximizing project efficiency in the oil and gas industry.
What are popular job titles related to Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Upstream Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Engineering job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,219 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
KBI: US - Process Engineer III

KBI: US - Process Engineer III

KBI Biopharma, Inc.

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Process Engineering is responsible for all Manufacturing process equipment and ensures the equipment and site infrastructure is in an active state to support cGMP operations.
As a Process Engineer, you will act as member of a cross-functional team to support implementation of new systems and improvements to existing manufacturing processes and equipment. You will apply sound scientific and engineering principles to successfully define upstream and downstream process equipment requirements, specifications and standards for facility fit, and assess equipment design and operation in a commercial cGMP production facility. This may include upstream activities such as cell culture and harvest, and/or downstream processes such as chromatography, purification, and filtration. You will be at the forefront of existing best practices and evaluating technologies. Provide system ownership for Biopharmaceutical process equipment. Identify, support, and/or lead implementation of engineering-based improvements or upgrades to the equipment or facility systems. This may include development of business case for improvement and identification of design requirements and then translation of requirements into process equipment/system design, specification and supporting the construction, startup, and validation of process equipment.
Key Responsibilities
  • You will support equipment commissioning and qualification activities related to new or modified processes.
  • Collaborate with MS&T and Manufacturing teams to troubleshoot and resolve equipment and process-related issues in manufacturing systems.
  • Act the technical subject matter expert (SME) for upstream and/or downstream equipment and the site clean utilities ensuring proper installation, qualification, and maintenance of these systems.
  • Lead process engineering related projects to improve manufacturing operations or implementation of new processing equipment. As the project lead you will ensure on time delivery, compliance with project requirements, and project budget.
  • Lead the development, scale-up, and optimization of upstream (cell culture, fermentation) and/or downstream (purification, filtration) processes for biologics or advanced therapies
  • Design and execute experiments to improve process robustness, yield, and product quality
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Regulatory, and Manufacturing teams to ensure seamless tech transfer and GMP compliance
  • Author and review process documentation including SOPs, and Engineering Studies protocols
  • Serve as a technical lead in cross-functional project teams and represent process engineering in regulatory filings and audits
  • Evaluate and implement new technologies (e.g., single-use systems, PAT tools, continuous processing) to enhance scalability and efficiency
  • Support capital projects including facility design, equipment selection, and commissioning
  • Lead risk assessments, and root cause investigations for process deviations
  • Communicate with other KBI sites for problem solving and consistency of processes through the organization.
  • Contribute to developing a culture of continuous improvements on processes and tools in close collaboration with other.
  • You will perform facility fit activities for various production scenarios.
  • You should be able to apply engineering principles in-order to problem-solve and drive projects to successful completion within defined timelines.
  • The ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and resources.
  • Lead and support CAPA, Change Control, Deviation, Risk Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, and other Quality Systems.
  • Providing technical support for equipment modifications, deviations, change controls, and CAPAs.
  • Develop and maintain equipment SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), training, and other process documentation.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's in chemical engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in bioprocess development or manufacturing within the biotech or biopharma industry
• Expertise in biologics, cell therapy, gene therapy, drug substance production processes
• Strong understanding of cGMP regulations, FDA/EMA guidelines, and validation principles
• Proficiency in process modeling and simulation tools
• Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional teams and project management
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Experience with regulatory submissions (IND, BLA, MAA) is a plus
KBI Biopharma, Inc. is an EEO/AA employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. Therefore, all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability or veteran status, are strongly encouraged to apply.
I understand that neither the completion of this application nor any other part of my consideration for employment establishes any obligation for KBI Biopharma, Inc. to hire me. If I am hired, I understand that either KBI Biopharma, Inc. or I can terminate my employment at any time and for any reason, with or without cause and without prior notice. I understand that no representative of KBI Biopharma, Inc. has the authority to make any assurance to the contrary.
I attest with my signature below that I have given to KBI Biopharma, Inc. true and complete information on this application. No requested information has been concealed. I authorize KBI Biopharma, Inc. to contact references provided for employment reference checks. If any information I have provided is untrue, or if I have concealed material information, I understand that this will constitute cause for the denial of employment or immediate dismissal.

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