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Upstream Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amgen

Mgr Manufacturing - Nights

West Greenwich, RI

Lead on-the-floor execution of AR5 PPH upstream manufacturing operations, including perfusion, production, and harvest activities. * Demonstrate technical mastery of cell culture processes, equipment ...

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How much do upstream manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream manufacturing in the United States is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is upstream manufacturing?

Upstream manufacturing refers to the initial stages of the production process in industries like biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, where raw materials such as cells, bacteria, or yeast are cultivated to produce a desired product. This stage typically includes activities like cell culture, fermentation, and media preparation. The goal is to optimize the growth and productivity of the biological system to ensure efficient production before moving to downstream processing, which involves purification and formulation of the final product.

What are some common challenges faced in upstream manufacturing, and how are they typically addressed by teams?

In upstream manufacturing, one of the main challenges is maintaining consistent cell culture conditions to optimize yield and product quality. Teams often face issues such as contamination, variability in raw materials, and equipment malfunctions. To address these challenges, upstream teams implement rigorous standard operating procedures (SOPs), utilize real-time monitoring systems, and collaborate closely with quality assurance and process engineering teams. Regular team meetings and cross-functional communication are key to quickly identifying and solving problems, ensuring smooth production runs.

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

To thrive in Upstream Manufacturing, you need a solid understanding of bioprocessing, cell culture techniques, and process engineering, often supported by a degree in biotechnology, chemical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with bioreactors, process control systems, and cGMP regulations is typically required, along with certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing being advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this field. These capabilities ensure efficient production, product quality, and compliance with industry standards in a highly regulated environment.

What is the difference between Upstream Manufacturing vs Downstream Manufacturing?

AspectUpstream ManufacturingDownstream Manufacturing
FocusRaw material extraction and initial processingFinal product assembly and packaging
Work EnvironmentFactories, extraction sitesAssembly lines, packaging facilities
CredentialsTechnical certifications, safety trainingQuality control, packaging certifications
Industry UsageOil & gas, chemicals, miningPharmaceuticals, food production, consumer goods

Upstream Manufacturing involves the extraction and initial processing of raw materials, while Downstream Manufacturing focuses on transforming these materials into finished products. Both roles are essential in the supply chain but differ in their processes, environments, and required skills.

More about Upstream Manufacturing jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Upstream Manufacturing jobs? The most popular types of Upstream Manufacturing jobs are:
What states have the most Upstream Manufacturing jobs? States with the most job openings for Upstream Manufacturing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Upstream Manufacturing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Manufacturing jobs are:
Upstream Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Manufacturing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,890 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Process Technician - Upstream operations

Process Technician - Upstream operations

LanceSoft Inc

Exton, PA

Contractor

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Description

LanceSoft - Pharmaceutical Client

Job Description

Under supervision and guidance, the Process Technician of Upstream Operations will be responsible for hand-on executing the routine operation, maintenance, and periodically requalification of cell culture based upstream production equipment and production suites in a cGMP biopharmaceutical pilot plant. In addition, the individual will execute and participate in the execution activities for scale-up and system operations supporting the manufacture of preclinical, clinical, and commercial biologics drug substances, including operation of cell culture bioreactors and harvest equipment, GMP documentation, and ensuring compliance to relevant regulations. 

Responsibilities Percent of Time 

Work in a hands-on capacity in the operation of upstream equipment for the manufacture of preclinical, clinical, and commercial biologics drug substances. 25
Ability to follow oral and written instructions, maintain neat, accurate, and current training and cGMP records.20
Performs all work duties via automated systems or manual operations in compliance with safe operating procedures, company and government regulations, and good manufacturing practices. 20
Perform process performance sampling/ in process testing supporting the manufacturing. 20
Maintains, inventories, and transports all required equipment, materials, supplies and products. Some heavy lifting is expected. 5
Participate and contribute in the validation maintenance, re-qualification of upstream (cell culture and harvest) production equipment. Assist and contribute in the commissioning of new equipment for upstream manufacturing. Participation in other areas within the facility may be added at the company's discretion. 5
Assist in equipment maintenance and calibration with appropriate internal departments. Provide cross-functional support for other departments within the pilot plant at the discretion of management. 5
The individual will play a hand-on execution role in the routine operation of the Biological pilot plant whose purpose is to produce material for preclinical, clinical, and commercial biologics drug substance to support Company's pipelines. Execution of manufacturing in the GMP production suites including documenting data compliantly.
Specifically, this person will participate and contribute to the success of the cell culture and harvest equipment operation and processes for the manufacture of materials for global clinical supplies. The individual will also participate in monitoring and maintaining the production area processes to remain compliant to regulations. The individual may also supporting a campaign and may provide cross-functional support for other departments within the pilot plant at the discretion of management.

Qualifications

Experience:
Minimum of 2-4 year (Associate degree) or 0-2 year (BS) practical scientific experience.
Ability to follow direction, work under supervision, and demonstrate capability in organizing complex activities in a cGMP production process.
Basic skills in executing routine production, maintenance, and operation of upstream cell culture and harvest equipment. Must have a Mechanical aptitude.
Good aseptic technique in maintaining process sterility.
Good written, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment required.
Capabilities in the operation of all area-specific production equipment such as large scale stir tank and/or single-use disposable bioreactors, centrifuge, micro-filtration, and CIP/SIP operations is a plus.
Previous exposures to cGMP, EMEA, and JP regulations as a plus.

Education: 

Two-year Associate degree or Four-year BS in Biotechnology or (Bio)Chemical Engineering or Engineering or Biological Sciences or equivalent job experience/degree is strongly preferred.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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About LanceSoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 2000, LanceSoft is a Certified MBE and Woman-Owned organization. Lancesoft Inc. is one of the highest rated companies in the industry. We have been recognized as one of the Largest Staffing firms and ranked in the top 50 fastest Growing Healthcare Staffing firms in 2022. Lancesoft offers short- and long-term contracts, permanent placements, and travel opportunities to credentialed and experienced professionals throughout the United States. We pride ourselves on having industry leading benefits. We understand the importance of partnering with an expert who values your needs, which is why we're 100% committed to finding you an assignment that best matches your career and lifestyle goals. Our team of experienced career specialists takes the time to understand your needs and match you with the right job Lancesoft has been chosen by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Best Staffing Firms to Work for.LanceSoft specializes in providing Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, LPNs/LVNs, Social Workers, Medical Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Long-Term Care centers, Rehab Facilities, Behavioral Health Centers, Drug & Alcohol Facilities, Home Health & Community Health, Urgent Care Clinics, and many other provider-based facilities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2000

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