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Upstream Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Raya Workforce

Process Engineer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Drive improvements across upstream manufacturing and downstream packaging * Support line trials, startup activities, and project engineering (FAT/SAT) What we're looking for: * 7-10+ years in FDA ...

Lancesoft INC

Manufacturing Technician

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Upstream Manufacturing - Responsible for cell growth from inoculation in spinner flasks through large scale bioreactors and the harvesting of cell culture via centrifugation and depth filtration.

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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.
Bioprocess Manager

Bioprocess Manager

Goodwin Biotechnology Inc

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

Scope of Function:

The Bioprocess Manager position reports to the Vice President of Technical Operations and act as the Upstream Manufacturing, Manager. Prior experience in GMP manufacturing, operation of GMP process equipment and aseptic technique are prerequisites. This role is responsible for overseeing end-to-end Upstream cGMP process for antibody and human cells production, including media/buffer preparation, seed train, medium to large scale bioreactor runs through the application of broad knowledge of theories and principles utilized to solve operational, as well as routine tasks in the production of bulk biologics from mammalian and cell culture systems for Phase I/II/III and commercial cGMP manufacturing.


Specific Duties:

• Collaborate with R&D and Process Development to transfer new monoclonal antibody processes and tech-transfers

• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and innovation within the team

• Develop and implement robust production schedules, ensuring all deliverables align with project deadlines and quality standards

• Operates pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment such as: incubators, wave reactors, single-use and stainless-steel bioreactors, single use mixers, depth filtration skids, TFF skids, chromatography skids and in process testing equipment.

• Executes all Upstream Clinical Manufacturing and Development operations, including but not limited to work functions in cell culture, cell banking, media optimization, seed train preparation, bioreactor operations, harvest/clarification, and technology transfer to manufacturing.

• Demonstrates, understands, and adheres to Goodwin Biotechnology policies, GMP standards and safety procedures.

• Performs and monitors critical processes, execute manufacturing batch records (MBR) for specific projects to manufacture cell-derived biopharmaceuticals in compliance with cGMP guidelines and regulation.

• Author and/or oversee the development of batch records, SOP’s and protocols as required.

• Supports other manufacturing processes teams and other GBI groups as necessary to achieve manufacturing goals.

• Conduct performance reviews, identify training needs, and provide professional development opportunities to team members.

• Lead cross-functional meetings to align upstream production with other departments, including downstream processing, QC, and supply chain

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Requirements:

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a closely related life sciences discipline.

• Minimum of seven (7) years of experience with biologic Upstream production processes under GMP compliance with a minimum of two (2) years of supervisor/manager experience

• Excellent documentation skills including comprehension and review & establishing batch production records.