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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

$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 ...

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How much do upstream manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,341 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Manufacturing Associate II, Drug Substance Upstream - Gene Therapy - Day Shift (Pitman rotation)

Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical

Bedford, MA • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Why Join Us?
Be a hero for our rare disease patients
At Ultragenyx, we fundamentally believe that taking real impactful action to care for the needs of patients and our people is always the right thing to do. To achieve this goal, our vision is to lead the future of rare disease medicine. For us, this means going where other biopharma companies won't go - challenging the status quo and creating a new model that advances our field so more patients and caregivers can benefit from life-changing treatments. We do this by following the science, applying a novel rapid development approach, making innovative medicines at fair and reasonable prices, and creating a collaborative ecosystem to reach patients in ways that are most meaningful for them.
Our commitment and care for patients extends to our people, so culture is an essential cornerstone for Ultragenyx. We remain continuously focused on creating a supportive and inclusive environment of profound learning and growth - so employees can thrive in all areas of their lives, in and outside of work. Ultimately, we want to be an organization where we would be proud for our family, friends and children to work.
If you want to have a meaningful impact, do the best work of your career, and grow a lot, both professionally and personally, come join our team.
Position Summary:
ultrafocused - Work together to fearlessly uncover new possibilities
The Manufacturing Associate II will be a suite-based position within the Gene Therapy Manufacturing facility. The position is a suite/clean room-based position where the Associate II position will be an on the floor technician assigned to the Upstream Manufacturing area.
Expertise will include all cell thaw and culture activities through the various scale of bioreactors up to 2000L and harvest operations.
The position is scheduled from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM on a Pitman rotation, with the potential to transition to a 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM shift based on facility demand.
Work Model:
Core Lab & Ops: This role typically requires that the majority of the work be conducted on-site.
Responsibilities:
  1. Ongoing maintenance of own training file ensuring full training has taken place for all aspects of the production activities in the GTMF area.
  2. Overseeing and driving their training in the GTMF area to enable them to carry out their duties efficiently and compliantly.
  3. Be able to operate efficiently the Veeva Vault system for all quality documentation.
  4. Ensure that high standards of cGMP are adhered to at all times.
  5. Revise GMP documents and templates including batch records, SOPs, OJTs and logbooks.
  6. Ensure that high standards of cGMP documentation completion are adhered to at all times and documentation is left in a reviewable condition at all times.
  7. Demonstrate ownership of the process to ensure that all resources (materials, personnel, documentation etc.) required for processing are available.
  8. Demonstrate a thorough and complete understanding of safety requirements, GMP compliance of the plant and process.
  9. Strive to become a subject matter expert for all "assigned" equipment in the area of control.
  10. Identification of immediate actions/escalation needed to mitigate risk to product, employee safety or schedule as appropriate.
  11. Identify any Continuous Improvements to the process/equipment and drive through to completion any projects to which may be assigned.
  12. Ensure high standards of housekeeping are adhered to at all times.
  13. Participate in internal/regulatory audits as required.
  14. Attend project and other meetings as required.
  15. Ensure effective liaison and communication with other departments, maintaining good relations at all times.
  16. Ensure that the appropriate safety policies and systems are adhered to in the GTMF suite.
  17. Ensure that objectives given are met in the appropriate agreed to timescale.
Requirements:
  1. High school degree to BS in Engineering, Scientific Discipline or Business or equivalent in experience.
  2. 4+ years' experience preferably in pharmaceutical manufacturing or other regulated industry co-op, and internship experience is considered.
  3. Experience with viral vectors and/or biological processes.
  4. Strong collaboration, team-working skills and communication skills.
  5. Ability and desire to work in a fast-paced, start-up environment is essential.
  6. Independently motivated and detail-oriented with good problem-solving ability.
  7. Need to be able to read, write and understand English, and be proficient in Microsoft (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Physical Demand Requirements
General Manufacturing: Drug Substance/Central Svcs:
  • Stand for extended periods of time with periodic stooping / bending / kneeling
  • Able to lift, push, pull up to 50lbs.
  • Climb ladders and stairs of various heights.
  • Work in a controlled environment requiring GxP gowning and wear protective clothing over the head, face, hands, feet, and body. This requires the ability to change clothes into appropriate gowning and personal protective equipment.
  • Certain tasks may require the use of a respirator; medical clearance will be required in advance.
  • Must remove all make-up, jewelry, and contact lenses while in the manufacturing environment.
  • Working in temperature-controlled environments (cold rooms).

#LI-CT1 #LI-Onsite
The typical annual salary range for this full-time position is listed below. This range reflects the characteristics of the job, such as required skills and qualifications and is based on the office location noted in this job posting. The range may also be adjusted based on applicant's geographic location.
This position is eligible for annual bonus and equity incentives. Actual individual pay is determined by demonstrated experience and internal equity alignment.
Pay Range
$78,300-$96,700 USD
Full Time employees across the globe enjoy a range of benefits, including, but not limited to:
• Generous vacation time and public holidays observed by the company
• Volunteer days
• Long term incentive and Employee stock purchase plans or equivalent offerings
• Employee wellbeing benefits
• Fitness reimbursement
• Tuition sponsoring
• Professional development plans
* Benefits vary by region and country
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin/ancestry, age, disability, marital and veteran status, and any other status or classification protected by applicable federal, state, and/or local laws. Reasonable accommodation will be provided for all protected statuses or classifications protected by applicable law, including individuals with disabilities, disabled veterans, for pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, and based on sincerely held religious beliefs. Applicants can request an accommodation prior to accepting a job offer. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, or in any part of the recruitment process, you may contact Talent Acquisition by emailing us at talentacquisition@ultragenyx.com
See our CCPA Employee and Applicant Privacy Notice.
See our Privacy Policy.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Note to External Recruiters: All candidate activity and open positions are managed strictly through our Human Resources Department. Our Human Resources Department kindly requests that recruiters not contact employees/hiring managers directly in an attempt to solicit business and present candidates. Please note that failure to comply with this request will be a factor in determining a professional relationship with our organization. Submission of unsolicited resumes prior to an agreement set in place between the Human Resources Department and the recruiting agency will not create any implied obligation. Inquiries on developing a recruiting relationship with us, may be directed to: talentacquisition@ultragenyx.com.

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