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Pfizer

Scientist- Bioprocessing Upstream

Sanford, NC · On-site

$82K - $137K/yr

In this role, you will apply scientific and engineering expertise to support process development ... Develop and qualify upstream models at bench and pilot scale for use in supporting commercial ...

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How much do upstream scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for upstream scientist in the United States is $43.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.17 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Upstream Scientists in bioprocess development, and how can they be addressed?

Upstream Scientists often encounter challenges such as optimizing cell culture conditions, scaling up processes from the laboratory to production levels, and ensuring consistency in yield and product quality. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, close attention to experimental design, and effective collaboration with downstream and analytical teams. Staying current with new bioprocessing technologies and maintaining clear documentation are also essential for addressing these issues and driving successful project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Upstream Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Upstream Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, biochemistry, or chemical engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in cell culture or fermentation processes. Familiarity with bioreactor systems, process analytical technologies (PAT), and data analysis software is typically required, along with knowledge of GMP regulations. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient process development and optimization, leading to high-quality biologics production in a regulated environment.

What is an Upstream Scientist?

An Upstream Scientist is a professional who specializes in the early stages of biopharmaceutical production, focusing on the cultivation and optimization of biological materials such as cells or microorganisms. Their primary role involves developing and improving processes like cell culture, fermentation, and media design to maximize the yield and quality of desired products, such as proteins or vaccines. Upstream Scientists work closely with downstream teams to ensure smooth transition of materials for further processing, and they play a crucial role in scaling up laboratory processes for commercial manufacturing.

What is the difference between Upstream Scientist vs Downstream Scientist?

AspectUpstream ScientistDownstream Scientist
Primary FocusResearch and develop processes for oil and gas extraction or biopharmaceutical production at the initial stagesRefine, purify, and package products after initial production
Required SkillsProcess engineering, laboratory analysis, biochemistry, geologyPurification techniques, chromatography, formulation, quality control
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, exploration sites, production facilitiesManufacturing plants, labs, quality assurance settings
Industry UsageOil & gas, biotechnology, pharmaceuticalsPharmaceuticals, biotech, chemical manufacturing

Upstream Scientists focus on the initial stages of production, such as exploration and process development, while Downstream Scientists handle the refining, purification, and final product formulation. Both roles require specialized skills and are essential in the production pipeline, often working in related industries like biotech and pharmaceuticals.

More about Upstream Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Upstream Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Upstream Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Upstream Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Upstream Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Upstream Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Upstream Scientist jobs are:
Upstream Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Upstream Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 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 $89,889 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Scientist II - Manager, PD Upstream

Scientist II - Manager, PD Upstream

Forge Biologics

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Forge Your Future with Us:
At Forge Biologics, we believe in turning bold ideas into life-changing realities. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to enable access to life-changing gene therapies and help bring them from ideas into reality. We partner with scientists, physicians, biotech and pharma innovators, and patient communities - all united by one goal: improving lives. If you're driven by purpose and excited to make a tangible impact, this is where your journey begins.
Our team works out of The Hearth, a state-of-the-art, 200,000-square-foot cGMP facility in Columbus, Ohio. Here, you won't just watch innovation happen - you'll be part of it. Whether you're scaling AAV manufacturing, collaborating on cutting-edge therapies, or supporting complex technical projects, you'll play a key role in bringing hope to patients with genetic diseases.
What sets Forge apart is our culture of H.O.P.E. We are hardworking, showing up each day with determination and grit. We are open, creating a space where ideas flow freely, and every voice is valued. We are purpose-driven, with every task directly tied to changing lives. And we are engaged, energized by the challenges we face and the milestones we achieve together.
At Forge, your growth matters. We're committed to helping you expand your skills, take on new challenges, and develop your career through mentorship, hands-on learning, and opportunities for advancement. Our people are our greatest investment, and we're proud to see team members grow with us.
If you're ready to use your talent to help deliver hope to patients around the world, join us - and be part of something bigger than yourself.
About The Role:
The Scientist II provides active leadership and execution of the laboratory experiments and protocols for upstream process development efforts. This individual will lead projects and complex experiments, train junior scientists, and actively contribute to the advancement of AAV manufacturing processes.
Responsibilities:
  • Senior-level technical contributor and subject matter expert for upstream systems and process strategy
  • Independently manages multiple projects or client programs simultaneously, maintaining a high degree of quality, scientific rigor, and compliance
  • Leads process development activities for early- to late-stage programs, including scale-up, technology transfer, and validation support
  • Designs and executes complex DoE studies, authors technical reports, and contributes to regulatory documentation
  • Anticipates challenges in upstream scale-up and proactively develops solutions to ensure technical success
  • Acts as a key liaison between Process Development, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to align on strategy and ensure smooth GMP execution
  • Contributes scientific rationale for tech transfer packages and GMP documentation without owning official SOPs or batch records
  • Mentors junior scientists and associates through day-to-day technical guidance, fostering development in experimental design, documentation standards, and scientific reasoning

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biology, or related discipline (or equivalent experience)
  • Working knowledge of cell culture techniques utilizing mammalian cells
  • Proven ability to operate and troubleshoot bioreactors
  • Experience planning, conducting and reviewing experimental data with minimal oversight
  • Experience training and development of other team members
  • Experience analyzing data sets and utilizing the corresponding data to influence decision making
  • Experience working with external collaborators (clients, external technology transfers, etc.)
  • Project management experience

Preferred Skills:
  • Master's Degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biology, or related discipline (or equivalent experience)
  • Experience working with viral vectors (AAV, Lentivirus, etc.)

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.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
This position works in both a laboratory environment and typical office environment where the physical work demands will vary depending on the specific tasks and duties required of the job. The employee will be stationary (standing/sitting) for extended periods of time. Employees regularly wear personal protective equipment based on the task being performed. Must be able to work in a confined space, such as a clean room or laboratory environment. Ability to identify small details within the field of vision, distinguish between different colors, and accurately identify objects within a specific area.
Forge Biologics is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Forge Biologics, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
We've Got You Covered:
At Forge Biologics, we believe our people deserve to be taken care of - in and out of the workplace. We've built a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to help you thrive, grow, and feel valued every step of the way:
Health from day one
  • Health, dental and vision insurance start your first day - with 90% of premiums covered for you and your family.

Time to recharge
  • A competitive paid time off plan - because rest fuels innovation.
  • 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave so you can focus on family when it matters most.

Rewarding your impact
  • Annual bonus opportunities for all full-time team members.
  • 401(k) with company match to help you plan for the future.
  • Special employee discounts, including childcare and dependent care savings.

Your wellness, supported
  • Onsite fitness facility at The Hearth.
  • Mental health counseling and financial planning services through our Employee Assistance Program.
  • Employer-paid short and long-term disability coverage to protect your peace of mind.

Fuel for your workday
  • A fully stocked kitchen with free snacks and beverages - we keep you energized and ready for what's next.

Grow with us
  • Ongoing professional development resources, training, and mentorship programs to help you build your care and grow within Forge.

Apply