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Upstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Elanco

Bio Manufacturing Operator

Elwood, KS

$17 - $20.25/hr

Execute and monitor core mAb manufacturing processes (media/buffer prep, upstream/downstream ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in a biomanufacturing related discipline (eg. biology, chemistry ...

Elanco

Bio Manufacturing Operator - Night shift

Elwood, KS

$17 - $20.25/hr

Execute and monitor core mAb manufacturing processes (media/buffer prep, upstream/downstream ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in a biomanufacturing related discipline (eg. biology, chemistry ...

Kelly Services

PRODUCTION ASSOCIATE

Hesston, KS

$18.50/hr

Offload, form, and deliver materials to upstream customer function as required * Metal finishing of ... Manufacturing, production, or fabrication experience preferred (required for some roles) Apply ...

Kelly Services

PRODUCTION ASSOCIATE

Hesston, KS

$18.50/hr

Offload, form, and deliver materials to upstream customer function as required * Metal finishing of ... Manufacturing, production, or fabrication experience preferred (required for some roles) Apply ...

Kelly Services

PRODUCTION ASSOCIATE

Hesston, KS

$18.50/hr

Offload, form, and deliver materials to upstream customer function as required * Metal finishing of ... Manufacturing, production, or fabrication experience preferred (required for some roles) Apply ...

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Upstream Manufacturing Associate information

See Kansas salary details

$10

$18

$29

How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream manufacturing associate in Kansas is $18.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 are some common challenges faced by Upstream Manufacturing Associates, and how can they be successfully 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 are Upstream Manufacturing Associates?

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 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 job categories do people searching Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Kansas are:
Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in Kansas as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 7% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,654 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Bio Manufacturing Operator

Bio Manufacturing Operator

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated

Elwood, KS • On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 70 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!
As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.
At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.
Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!
$2,500 sign-on bonus eligible!
Why Work at Elwood?
The Elanco Elwood, Kansas facility was acquired from Kindred Biosciences in 2021 which offers a strong pipeline of innovative drugs for companion animals within the monoclonal antibody space. Working at a monoclonal antibody start-up facility in Elwood, Kansas presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research: Monoclonal antibodies are an innovative type of biologic drug that can target specific molecules in the body to treat a variety of diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. Working at a start-up facility that is developing these drugs is an opportunity to be on the forefront of medical research and contribute to developing treatments that can have a significant impact on pets' lives.
Shift: This role has a12-hour shift schedule - 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including every other weekend. Further details about the specific 12-hour shift schedule will be discussed during the interview process.
Please note that weekend work will have a 4% premium and work outside of your shift hours will have 10% premium.
Your Role:
An operator is responsible for performing and documenting all tasks and activities associated with biologics manufacturing at the Elwood, Kansas monoclonal antibody (mAb) manufacturing facility.
  • Execute and monitor core mAb manufacturing processes (media/buffer prep, upstream/downstream processing, formulation, fill/finish, secondary packaging).
  • Maintain cGMP compliance in a regulated environment (USDA/FDA/EMA).
  • Follow SOPs and batch records precisely for equipment operation, processing, and daily tasks.
  • Perform aseptic manipulations and maintain a sterile environment.
  • Support equipment preparation, maintenance, and process improvements, while interfacing with QC for sampling and environmental monitoring.

What You Need to Succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Proficient in basic computer skills (Windows/Microsoft Office) and communication (written & verbal).
  • Demonstrates teamwork, initiative, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude.
  • Must be able to wear appropriate gowning and personal protective equipment (PPE) in production and manufacturing support areas.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications)
  • Associate or Bachelor's degree in a biomanufacturing related discipline (eg. biology, chemistry, engineering, etc.).
  • Experience in a regulated, commercial GMP biomanufacturing environment (relevant experience may include media and buffer preparation, cell culture, fermentation, aseptic processing, chromatography, TFF, final formulation, and fill/finish).
  • Understanding of USDA, FDA, and EU GMP regulatory standards for veterinary biologics.
  • Good mechanical aptitude.

Additional Information:
  • Location: Elwood, KS (Onsite).

Elanco Benefits and Perks:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:
  • 8-week parental leave

  • 9 Employee Resource Groups

  • Annual bonus offering

  • Up to 6% 401K matching

#LI-MNLC
Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status

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