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Upstream Process Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... of scientists and engineers through process development at bench, pilot, and manufacturing scale ... Collaborate closely with upstream process development and strain engineering teams to align on ...

... of scientists and engineers through process development at bench, pilot, and manufacturing scale ... Collaborate closely with upstream process development and strain engineering teams to align on ...

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Upstream Process Scientist information

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$18

$41

$75

How much do upstream process scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream process scientist in California is $41.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.54 and $46.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an upstream process scientist?

An Upstream Process Scientist is responsible for developing and optimizing the early stages of biopharmaceutical production, including cell culture, media preparation, and bioreactor operations. They work to improve cell growth, productivity, and scalability of biologics such as monoclonal antibodies or vaccines. Their role involves designing experiments, analyzing data, and troubleshooting issues to ensure efficient and reproducible upstream processes.

What does an upstream process scientist do?

As an Upstream Process Scientist, your daily responsibilities often include designing and executing experiments to optimize cell culture conditions, operating and monitoring bioreactors, and analyzing process data to improve yields or purity. You will collaborate closely with downstream process scientists, quality assurance teams, and manufacturing staff to ensure smooth technology transfer and troubleshoot production issues. Additionally, documenting findings, preparing technical reports, and participating in project meetings are key aspects of the role. This position is dynamic and may also involve scaling up processes from laboratory to pilot or manufacturing scale, providing excellent opportunities to develop both technical expertise and project management skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an upstream process scientist?

To thrive as an Upstream Process Scientist, you need a strong background in bioprocess engineering, cell culture, fermentation, and a relevant scientific degree such as biotechnology, biology, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with bioreactors, process analytical technologies (PAT), statistical analysis software, and GMP/GLP standards is highly valued, and some positions may require certifications like Six Sigma or specific training in biomanufacturing. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills distinguish top performers in this role, as does the ability to adapt quickly to evolving project needs. These skills are essential for developing and optimizing scalable, high-yield biological production processes while ensuring regulatory compliance and effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What job categories do people searching Upstream Process Scientist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Upstream Process Scientist jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Upstream Process Scientist job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,197 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Scientist, Downstream Process Development

Tustin, CA

Avid Bioservices
Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$124K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Looking to join a passionate team dedicated to developing and manufacturing life-saving biopharmaceuticals? Avid Bioservices is a leading clinical and commercial biologics CDMO focused on creating innovative solutions to meet the needs of our clients and improve patient outcomes.
Your Role:
The Scientist, Downstream Process Development, will support the development and optimization of downstream purification processes for protein-based biologics. Responsibilities include chromatography and filtration process development, scale-up and technology transfer activities, viral clearance studies, and data analysis. The individual will collaborate closely with Upstream Process Development, Analytical Sciences, MSAT, Manufacturing, Program Management, and clients to advance development programs from early-stage development through manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrated expertise in downstream process development for monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and other biologic modalities, including chromatography, filtration, buffer development, and process scale-up.
  • Strong understanding of protein purification principles, process characterization, experimental design, statistical data analysis, and biopharmaceutical development workflows.
  • Experience leading technical projects, troubleshooting complex process challenges, and driving development strategies with minimal supervision.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze, interpret, and present scientific data, author technical reports, and communicate findings effectively to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Experience supporting technology transfer, manufacturing process implementation, and cross-functional collaboration within a GMP-regulated environment is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge of process analytical technologies (PAT), laboratory automation, high-throughput process development, process intensification, and digital data management tools is preferred.
  • Proven ability to mentor junior scientists and provide scientific leadership across project teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience interacting directly with clients, partners, and senior leadership.
  • Working knowledge of regulatory expectations and CMC development activities supporting clinical and commercial biologics programs is desirable.
  • Occasional travel by land and/or air may be required to attend seminars or conferences or client meetings.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, or a related discipline with 0-3 years of relevant industry experience; OR M.S. degree with 5+ years; OR B.S. degree with 8+ years of relevant biopharmaceutical industry experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related field with 1-2 years or M.S. with 3-5 years of industry experience.
  • Prior experience in leading downstream process development of biologics is a plus.
  • Experience mentoring or leading scientific staff preferred.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This role is a full-time onsite position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday unless otherwise stated by Supervisor. The employee must also have the ability to work overtime and/or weekends when necessary.

Compensation:

We offer competitive compensation packages for this role, including a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off.

The compensation range for this role is $124,000 - $155,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, we offer opportunities for career growth and development as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Who you are:

  • You have a "bring it on!" team player approach and an unshakable positive attitude, always ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
  • Your written and verbal skills are out of this world, and you communicate with clarity and confidence.
  • You have exceptional multitasking skills and an unparalleled attention to detail that ensure the smooth running of everything.
  • You are a master at building relationships, capable of establishing connections with anyone, be it team members, clients, vendors, or suppliers.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

In this dynamic role, expect a blend of regular activities like sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional physically engaging tasks such as lifting objects up to 25 pounds. The work environment might expose you to electrical shocks, toxic chemicals, vibrations, or loud noise levels occasionally. However, reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with different abilities to perform effectively, ensuring a supportive and adaptable work setting. Your visual acuity, including close, distance, and color vision, will be essential in navigating through the diverse day-to-day demands of this position.

Employment Type: Full-Time