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Upstream Manufacturing Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forge Biologics

GMP Technician I, Upstream

Columbus, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

... manufacturing processes. Qualifications: * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific field ... Upstream bioprocessing or biologics manufacturing experience. * Familiarity with cell culture ...

Forge Biologics

GMP Technician I, Upstream

Columbus, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

... manufacturing processes. Qualifications: * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific field ... Upstream bioprocessing or biologics manufacturing experience. * Familiarity with cell culture ...

Forge Biologics

GMP Technician I, Upstream

Columbus, OH

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

... manufacturing processes. Qualifications: * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific field ... Upstream bioprocessing or biologics manufacturing experience. * Familiarity with cell culture ...

TekWissen LLC

Manufacturing Associate

Logan, UT · On-site

$18.40/hr

Manufacturing Associate Location: Logan, UT - 84321 Duration: 12 Months Job Type: Temporary ... Perform mutual inspections with upstream and downstream stations. * Identify, correct, and report ...

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Upstream Manufacturing Associate information

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$33

How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 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 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 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 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 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.
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Upstream Manufacturing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Manufacturing Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% 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.
KBI: US - Manufacturing Associate I/II

KBI: US - Manufacturing Associate I/II

KBI Biopharma, Inc.

Boulder, CO • On-site

$30.29 - $41.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

At KBI Biopharma, we are advancing science and accelerating breakthroughs. As a global leader in biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing, we empower life science companies to bring new medicines and vaccines to the world faster. Explore your potential at KBI, where innovation meets impact.
Position Schedule:
This position is for a Manufacturing Associate I/II working 6:00 AM - 6:30 PM on a 2 - 2 - 3-day shift schedule.
Position Summary:
The Manufacturing Associate I/II is responsible for performing upstream or downstream processing of bulk intermediates and/or bulk drug substances for biopharmaceutical products. The Manufacturing Associate must follow written, approved procedures and forms to ensure all work is conducted "Right First Time" (RFT) following Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), including good documentation practices, and/or Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
Responsibilities:
  • Manufacture bulk intermediates and drug substances per manufacturing batch records and in compliance with quality standards, company policies and current regulations.
  • Perform operations in a cleanroom environment, applying controls to ensure aseptic processing including gowning and cleaning procedures.
  • Document each task involving manufacturing records and logbooks following GDP at the time of execution.
  • Utilize and perform maintenance on equipment per applicable SOP.
  • Ensure all materials are issued and accounted for during the execution of a record (i.e. SPR, BPR and Forms).
  • Demonstrate, apply, and ensure understanding of cGMP and how it applies to specific tasks and responsibilities.
  • Participate and be accountable for workplace organization (5S).

Requirements:
  • Manufacturing Associate I: Bachelor's degree in a related scientific or engineering discipline and 0-2 years' experience in related cGMP manufacturing operations; or high school degree and 3-5 years' experience, or equivalent.
  • Manufacturing Associate II: Bachelor's degree in a related scientific or engineering discipline and 2-5 years' experience in related cGMP manufacturing operations; or high school degree and 4-6 years' experience, or equivalent.

Salary Range:
  • Manufacturing Associate I: $26.44 - $36.49
  • Manufacturing Associate II: $30.29 - $41.78

Salary range provided per current averages and expectations. The salary and job title for this opening will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience and may be outside this range. KBI has a robust total rewards strategy which includes an annual bonus structure for all employees, medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid PTO and holidays, 401K matching with 100% vesting in 60 days and employee recognition programs.
KBI Biopharma, Inc. is an EEO/AA employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. Therefore, all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability or veteran status, are strongly encouraged to apply.
I understand that neither the completion of this application nor any other part of my consideration for employment establishes any obligation for KBI Biopharma, Inc. to hire me. If I am hired, I understand that either KBI Biopharma, Inc. or I can terminate my employment at any time and for any reason, with or without cause and without prior notice. I understand that no representative of KBI Biopharma, Inc. has the authority to make any assurance to the contrary.
I attest with my signature below that I have given to KBI Biopharma, Inc. true and complete information on this application. No requested information has been concealed. I authorize KBI Biopharma, Inc. to contact references provided for employment reference checks. If any information I have provided is untrue, or if I have concealed material information, I understand that this will constitute cause for the denial of employment or immediate dismissal.

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