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Upstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Virginia

Compunnel, Inc.

Production Associate / Operator

Stanley, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... paced manufacturing environment. The position involves supporting production operations ... Communicate quality defects and process concerns with upstream and downstream departments * Support ...

Amazon

Mechatronic Apprentice I

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

During on-the-job learning (OJL) you will work with complex high-performance manufacturing systems ... You must have the ability to work collaboratively and coordinate your activities with upstream and ...

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Upstream Manufacturing Associate information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$20

$33

How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream manufacturing associate in Virginia is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $23.12 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 are popular job titles related to Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Virginia? For Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings:
Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs near you
Production Associate / Operator

Production Associate / Operator

Compunnel, Inc.

Stanley, VA • On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description


Job Summary:
The Production Associate / Operator is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and processing doors throughout the production line while ensuring all products meet quality standards. This role requires strong attention to detail, use of woodworking tools, and the ability to identify and repair product defects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The position involves supporting production operations, maintaining workflow efficiency, and communicating quality concerns across departments.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform visual quality inspections on stacks of doors moving through the production line
  • Identify, repair, and correct quality defects on doors using approved tools and materials
  • Restack completed doors that meet quality specifications
  • Move and position pallets and door stacks on conveyors and infeed tracks
  • Operate jump tracks and straighten doors as required during production
  • Separate and document unrepairable doors on reject sheets
  • Use glue guns, palm sanders, sanding blocks, putty knives, chisels, clamps, Bondo, hot melt glue, touch-up paint, and putty to repair doors
  • Read and interpret ticket instructions, specifications, and production documents
  • Assist with multiple stages of door production as needed
  • Maintain production flow while meeting customer quality expectations
  • Communicate quality defects and process concerns with upstream and downstream departments
  • Support housekeeping and safe work practices within the production area

Required Skills:
  • Strong attention to detail and quality inspection skills
  • Ability to identify defects and determine repairability of products
  • Experience using woodworking and hand tools including sanders, planers, chisels, putty knives, and sanding blocks
  • Ability to read and interpret production tickets and specifications
  • Basic problem-solving and decision-making skills
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Good communication and teamwork skills
  • Ability to maintain high quality standards consistently

Preferred Skills:
  • Experience in door manufacturing, woodworking, or production environments
  • Experience with product repair and finishing techniques
  • Knowledge of manufacturing quality standards and defect identification
Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent preferred

Education: High School

Company Description

Compunnel Inc., established in 1994; is a leading provider of Staffing, IT/Software, e-Learning/Training, Business Intelligence, and Cloud Solutions. A leader in contingent and permanent workforce solutions, we also provide temp-to-hire staffing, project-based/SOW staffing, and payroll services to our esteemed clientele which includes Fortune 500 companies of diverse industry segments. Ranked as one of the largest staffing firms in the US which is our primary service market; we also have a significant presence in Europe and Asia. As a national service provider in the US, we are serving our customers all major states and regions; thereby generating numerous job opportunities for prospective employees in their preferred locations of choice.
We have witnessed multi-fold YOY growth, and continuously adding a large pool of talented resources to our employee base every year. Our extensive experience in hiring professionals of multiple in-demand skill sets (IT, Engineering, Healthcare, Admin-Clerical, Finance, Professional, Light Industrial, etc.) further makes Compunnel a wider and preferred platform for people to pursue their careers in the US. We welcome people from all walks of life and cultures, and we support workforce diversity by providing equal employment opportunities to people without any discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, national/ethnic region, disability, or any other basis.
Compunnel logo

About Compunnel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Compunnel is a well-known company located in Plainsboro, NJ, US, recognized in the industry of IT Services and Solutions. Established in 1989, Compunnel offers a suite of services that help businesses integrate technology efficiently into their operations, a recognizable name in the IT solutions sphere for over three decades. The company’s service portfolio includes Digital Transformation, Business Intelligence, Cloud Services, Cybersecurity, and Application Modern Services, among others. Guided by its mission "to innovate with industry-leading digital solutions and disruptive tech strategies for unimagining business growth," the company underlines its commitment to offering out-of-the-box solutions to its clients. Remarkable achievements of the company include serving more than 30 Fortune 500 companies and providing job opportunities for over 50,000 individuals.

Industry

It services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Plainsboro, NJ, US

Year founded

1994

Social media

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