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Upstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Illinois

Astrix Inc

Packaging Associate - Biopharmaceutical

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

... upstream manufacturing. This role will be with our client who has a global footprint in both R&D ... Associate's degree or higher in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, or related field * 6 ...

Jobtailor

Senior Fermentation Scientist

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

* Lead internal upstream process development efforts at the Sumitomo Biorational Company Biorational ... Provide guidance to research associates and support their professional development. * Take primary ...

AbbVie

Associate, Engineer (Hybrid)

North Chicago, IL · On-site

Basic understanding of biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes, including upstream/downstream operations, clean utilities, HVAC, cleanrooms, and process equipment. * Knowledge of cGMP regulations ...

RTC

Quality Control Supervisor

Romeoville, IL · On-site

Partner with upstream teams to ensure quality requirements are integrated in the lifecycle. * Drive ... Discounts to eligible fitness centers for associates enrolled with Blue Cross. * Preventative Care ...

MRC Global

Sales & Service Representative

Granite City, IL · On-site

$22.90 - $26.30/hr

MRC Global serves the oil and gas industry across the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors as ... Technical/Trade School, associate degree, bachelor's degree, preferably with studies in industrial ...

MRC Global

Sales & Service Representative

Granite City, IL · On-site

$22.90 - $26.30/hr

MRC Global serves the oil and gas industry across the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors as ... Technical/Trade School, associate degree, bachelor's degree, preferably with studies in industrial ...

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.

RME Operator

Rockford, IL · On-site

Work collaboratively with journey workers and coordinate activities with upstream and downstream ... Vocational/technical training or an associate degree or above, OR 1+ years of RME (Reliability ...

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All JobsUpstream Manufacturing Associate JobsUpstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Illinois

Upstream Manufacturing Associate information

See Illinois salary details

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$32

How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream manufacturing associate in Illinois is $20.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $22.60 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.

What are popular job titles related to Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Illinois?

For Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings:

Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,999 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Packaging Associate - Biopharmaceutical

Astrix Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Opportunity for an experienced Packaging Technician to continue their career in downstream/upstream manufacturing. This role will be with our client who has a global footprint in both R&D and manufacturing within the biopharma industry.
Schedule: Weekly rotation 6a-2:30p; 2p-10:30p
Location: Chicago, IL
Type of Job: Temp to hire
Responsibilities:
  • Inspect the packaging line and clear it as needed
  • Set up and operate labeling, blister packaging, check weigher, serialization, and aggregation, temper evident, and carbonator machines
  • Calibrate weighing machine
  • Clean and sanitize all packaging area equipment
  • Maintain documentation
  • Troubleshoot machinery
.
Requirements:
  • Associate's degree or higher in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, or related field
  • 6 months of GMP and FDA regulations required; 2-3 years of experience in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical experience preferred
  • Experience working with syringes or injectables preferred

We strongly encourage candidates who have some of the skills to apply. We look forward to a conversation to learn more about you!
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