1

Upstream Process Scientist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Principal Engineer, MS&T

Durham, NC · On-site

$126K - $234K/yr

As a Principal Engineer, MS&T, you will serve as a scientific and technical leader for upstream processes, bringing deep expertise in gene therapy manufacturing to support innovation, troubleshoot ...

... Life Sciences industry. Established in 1999, Valspec's mission is to provide a wide spectrum of ... Process Engineer -- Upstream / Downstream / Clean Utilities (Consultant) -- Contract Engagement:

Pioneering science to create transformative molecular medicines. Our mission: Lead innovative ... Hands-on upstream or downstream biomanufacturing laboratory experience * Excellent written and ...

Pioneering science to create transformative molecular medicines. Our mission: Lead innovative ... Hands-on upstream or downstream biomanufacturing laboratory experience * Excellent written and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Upstream Process Scientist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$17

$40

$74

How much do upstream process scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream process scientist in Raleigh, NC is $40.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.13 and $46.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Upstream Process Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Upstream Process Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Upstream Process Scientist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Upstream Process Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Upstream Process Scientist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,084 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Associate I/II- Upstream

KBI Biopharma, Inc.

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


KBI Biopharma rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
This position is on a 2-2-3 rotating schedule, dayshift (7am-7pm)
The Manufacturing Associate I/II is responsible for performing upstream processing 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). As needed, the Manufacturing Associate will work individually or on teams to author standard operating procedures (SOPs) or Master Batch Records (MBRs); write corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs); and specify, commission, and qualify new equipment.
The Manufacturing Associate will be responsible for upstream unit operations (seed expansion, bioreactor operations, cell culture harvest). The Manufacturing Associate will have a working knowledge of upstream processing equipment (incubators, biosafety cabinets, bioreactors, cell counters, blood gas analyzers, metabolite testing equipment). Additionally, the manufacturing associate will have knowledge of general bioprocessing equipment such as filters, filter integrity testers, balances, pumps, pH/conductivity meters, and disposable technologies (disposable bags, sterile tubing welders, tubing sealers). Following task execution, the Manufacturing Associate will review the executed production records and logbooks to ensure GxP compliance.
The Manufacturing Associate will execute daily tasks and maintain strict accordance with manufacturing records, SOPs, and GMP. Staff will maintain a sense of ownership of the production processes, the manufacturing environment, and the facility. Staff will work cross-functionally with QA, MS&T, facilities, engineering, supply chain, IT, AFS, and other key departments to ensure startup and ongoing manufacturing operations are successful, reliable, and compliant. A proven Manufacturing Associate will demonstrate the following qualities: learning agility, orientation toward action, results driven, team player, strong attention to detail, and superior integrity and accountability.
JOB 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. SR, EPR and BR).
Demonstrate, apply, and ensure understanding of cGMP and how it applies to specific tasks and responsibilities.
Participate and be accountable for workplace organization (5S).
MINIMUM 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.

All Levels:
Basic knowledge of upstream (cell culture or fermentation) unit operations is preferred. Experience in single-use platform technology is preferred. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required. Energetic, motivated, and dynamic individual.
Language Ability
Fluent in reading and writing the English language. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, batch production records. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively to groups.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Math Ability
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret graphs.
Physical Demands
Standing and sitting for long periods of time may be required at times. Lifting, pushing, and pulling may be required for stocking and movement of equipment. The use of ladder may be required when setting up bioreactors.
Computer Skills
MS Office, ERP, EDMS, production equipment software, other
Equipment Use
Upstream or downstream bioprocessing equipment, general production equipment, in-process testing instruments, and office equipment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Are there particular working conditions associated with this position that should be noted (i.e., working environment, hours of work, travel, workspace, etc.)?
Yes
The job requires working 12-hour shifts which may include working overnight. The job requires working within a cGMP manufacturing biotechnology facility which requires clean room operations. Clean room operations require donning clean room attire when entering clean room areas and maintaining good personal hygiene. While performing the duties of this job the employee regularly utilizes equipment and materials which include mechanical hazards, chemical hazards, electricity hazards, and tripping and falling hazards. The noise level in the environment is moderate to high.
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.

What KBI Biopharma employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom