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Upstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kinetic Personnel Group

Be Seen First

Manufacturing Upstream, Downstream and Formulation

Tustin, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Upstream, Formulation & Downstream Manufacturing Associate Location: Tustin, CA Industry: Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Schedule: Multiple Shifts Available Employment Type: Full-Time Position ...

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TekWissen LLC

Manufacturing Associate

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Manufacturing Associate Location: Vacaville, CA 95688 Duration: 6 Months Job Type: Temporary ... Support Upstream Manufacturing activities, including media preparation, fermentation, harvest ...

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Upstream Manufacturing Associate information

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How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream manufacturing associate in the United States is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an upstream manufacturing associate?

Upstream Manufacturing Associates are professionals who work in the early stages of biopharmaceutical production, primarily focusing on cell culture and fermentation processes. They are responsible for preparing and maintaining bioreactors, monitoring cell growth, and ensuring optimal conditions for producing biological products such as proteins or vaccines. Their role is crucial in setting the foundation for downstream purification and final product manufacturing. Upstream Manufacturing Associates often work in cleanroom environments and follow strict safety and quality protocols.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an upstream manufacturing associate?

To thrive as an Upstream Manufacturing Associate, you need a solid background in biology or biochemistry, familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and typically a bachelor's degree in a scientific field. Experience with bioreactor operation, aseptic techniques, and process control systems such as DeltaV is often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the consistent production of high-quality biological products and compliance with industry regulations in a fast-paced environment.

What challenges do upstream manufacturing associates face and how can they be managed?

Upstream Manufacturing Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterility in bioprocessing environments, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adapting to rapidly changing production schedules. Successfully managing these challenges requires strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), strong attention to detail, and effective communication with cross-functional teams like quality assurance and process engineering. Proactively seeking feedback, participating in ongoing training, and staying organized can help associates stay ahead of potential issues and contribute positively to team goals.

What is the difference between Upstream Manufacturing Associate vs Downstream Manufacturing Associate?

AspectUpstream Manufacturing AssociateDownstream Manufacturing Associate
Primary ResponsibilitiesBioreactor operation, cell culture, media preparationPurification, filtration, packaging of products
Work EnvironmentCleanroom, laboratory, manufacturing floorCleanroom, laboratory, manufacturing floor
Required SkillsBioprocessing, sterile techniques, equipment handlingFiltration, chromatography, aseptic processing
CertificationsGMP training, sterile technique certificationGMP training, sterile technique certification

Both roles are essential in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, with upstream associates focusing on the early stages of production like cell culture, and downstream associates handling product purification and finishing. They often work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, but their specific tasks differ within the manufacturing process.

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Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,341 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Biopharm Manufacturing Associate

Alphanumeric Systems Inc.

King Of Prussia, PA • On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Biopharm Manufacturing Associate (Entry Level)
King of Prussia, PA (Upper Merion)

Alphanumeric is hiring a Biopharm Manufacturing Associate to join our client of over 20 years, a global biopharmaceutical leader dedicated to developing life-changing medicines and improving patient lives.

Pay Rate: $22.00-$23.00/hour
Launch Your Career in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing

Are you a recent science graduate looking to break into the pharmaceutical industry? This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a GMP-regulated manufacturing environment while working alongside experienced professionals supporting the production of innovative therapies.
No prior pharmaceutical manufacturing experience is required-just a strong scientific foundation, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.

What You'll Do:
As a Biopharm Manufacturing Associate, you'll support daily manufacturing operations while ensuring products are produced safely, accurately, and in compliance with GMP regulations.

Responsibilities include:
  • Execute daily manufacturing activities by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and batch records.
  • Accurately document manufacturing activities in accordance with GMP requirements.
  • Dispense both small and large quantities of raw materials.
  • Perform Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) and Sterilization-in-Place (SIP) of manufacturing equipment and product tanks.
  • Assist with troubleshooting equipment and manufacturing processes.
  • Author, revise, and support SOPs, deviations, and change controls.
  • Operate within a highly regulated GMP manufacturing environment while maintaining quality and compliance standards.
  • Safely handle hazardous materials using established safety procedures.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and collaborate across cross-functional teams.
  • Perform additional manufacturing duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For:
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or another scientific or engineering discipline.
  • Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
  • Strong written communication and documentation skills.
  • Computer proficiency.
  • Ability to follow detailed written procedures.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • 1+ year of cGMP or pharmaceutical manufacturing experience.
  • Knowledge of GMP regulations and documentation practices.
  • Experience with upstream manufacturing processes, including media preparation and bioprocess unit operations.
  • Familiarity with analytical equipment such as:
    • Vi-Cell.
    • NOVA Analyzer.
    • Centrifuges.
    • Tubing Welders.
  • Exposure to PLC, DCS, or HMI systems.
Work Environment & Additional Information:
  • 100% onsite position based in King of Prussia (Upper Merion), PA
  • Initial 12-month contract with the potential to extend up to 18 months based on business needs and performance
  • This is an Upstream Manufacturing role supporting biopharmaceutical production
  • Candidates must be able to wear a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) as required for the position
  • Following hire, candidates will complete a medical clearance/respirator screening in accordance with OSHA requirements before using a PAPR (Non-SCBA)
Why Join Us?
  • Entry point into the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry.
  • Hands-on GMP manufacturing experience.
  • Work with an industry-leading global biopharmaceutical company.
  • Collaborative, team-oriented environment.
  • Opportunity to develop valuable technical and manufacturing skills.
  • Potential for long-term career growth within biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

Excellent opportunity to gain hands-on upstream biopharmaceutical manufacturing experience with a global pharmaceutical leader.

If you're passionate about science and ready to launch your career in pharmaceutical manufacturing, we'd love to hear from you!