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Upstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Gainesville, GA

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... upstream processing equipment. Specific Duties Include: * Serve as a valuable member of the ... Education: · Associate degree and/or Equivalent work experience will be considered Company ...

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Bioprocess Technician (Upstream) Bioprocess Technician operating seed and production scale ... Education: · Associate degree or applicable industry experience in related field · Equivalent ...

Upstream Manufacturing Associate information

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$11

$19

$31

How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream manufacturing associate in Gainesville, GA is $19.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.73 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 Gainesville, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Gainesville, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs in Gainesville, GA are:

What cities near Gainesville, GA are hiring for Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs?

Cities near Gainesville, GA with the most Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in Gainesville, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,414 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Bioprocessing Manufacturing Technician

RWDC Industries

Winder, GA • On-site

$45K - $46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

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Job description

***This job will be located in Athens, GA***

Immediate opening for a Bioprocess Technician operating seed and production scale bioreactors and upstream processing equipment.

Specific Duties Include:

  • Serve as a valuable member of the Bioprocess and Process Teams, working effectively to meet goals, objectives, and complete tasks to achieve desired results.
  • Operate bioreactors to support fermentation process development and production activities, which includes cleaning, sterilizing, addition of media components, reactor sampling, and routine maintenance.
  • Support downstream processing by assisting with running separator equipment, chemical additions, and cleaning processes.
  • Provide timely and accurate verbal and written communication to team members and management.
  • Work with other team members to prioritize tasks/assignments and make recommendations to maximize efficiency/productivity based on production and departmental needs.
  • Promote and contribute to a safe working environment.
  • Successful candidates must be willing to work, day and night shifts.

Skills Required:

  • Must possess solid problem-solving, interpersonal communication, and team-based skills
  • Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Must be computer proficient and have good working knowledge of Microsoft Office
  • Basic maintenance skills and good mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize workload
  • Must be willing and able to work in a process environment which requires frequent standing, walking upstairs, and lifting moderate weights (up to 50 lbs)
  • Strong desire to change the world

Preferred:

  • Demonstrated experience/knowledge working in a bioprocessing/biotechnology facility.
  • Understand basic laboratory protocols/procedures, including basic bioprocessing and fermentation techniques, major unit operations and aseptic techniques.

Education:

· Associate degree and/or Equivalent work experience will be considered

Company Description

We are a growing biotechnology company in Athens, Georgia. We manufacture bio-based polymers with a goal of replacing single-use petroleum-based plastics. Our biopolymers are bio-based and made from renewable resources that are biodegradable and compostable.