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How much do upstream scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,889 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Field Applications Scientist, Upstream Bioproduction Processing (MA)

Field Applications Scientist, Upstream Bioproduction Processing (MA)

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Lowell, MA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 512 rated manufacturers

Job description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Office

Job Description

At Thermo Fisher Scientific, our mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer.

As a USP Field Application Scientist (FAS) within the BioProduction Group, you will serve as a bioprocessing domain expert—helping biotechnology and biopharmaceutical customers accelerate technology adoption, process design, and optimization across upstream workflows.

You will engage customers on a peer-to-peer, application-focused basis, providing technical leadership and process insight before, during, and after the sale. Acting as both a trusted advisor and problem solver, you will ensure customers achieve compliance, speed, and performance using Thermo Fisher Scientific solutions while helping shape our future innovations through Voice of Customer (VOC)

Location:

This is a remote customer facing position covering a Massachusetts territory. Residency in either Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire or Connecticut is required. No relocation assistance is provided.

What You Will Do

  • Serve as a technical expert and consultant, applying deep bioprocessing knowledge across upstream processing and single-use technologies.
  • Engage customers peer-to-peer to support process development, optimization, and technology integration across upstream workflows.
  • Lead pre- and post-sales technical activities, including product evaluations, proof-of-principle (PoP) studies, demos, pilot runs, and technology qualification in regulated environments.
  • Provide comprehensive troubleshooting as the entry point for quality and performance issues, collaborating with Quality, Field Service, and Technical Support to ensure fast, compliant resolution.
  • Deliver technical training for both internal and external audiences—covering process scientists, engineers, and operators—to build capability and confidence in Thermo Fisher systems.
  • Conduct workflow consulting and GEMBA walks at customer sites to identify process improvement opportunities and align solutions with operational goals.
  • Support Bioprocessing Development Center (BDC) activities and on-site demonstrations, ensuring consistent messaging and technical excellence.
  • Develop and implement adoption plans with measurable achievements (e.g., time-to-first-run, time-to-first-GMP lot) and conduct follow-up utilization reviews.
  • Document all activities in CRM/SFDC, maintaining accurate technical engagement records, win plans, and risk mitigation plans.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Account Managers, Field Service Engineers, Technical Support, Product Management, R&D, and Quality/Regulatory to deliver seamless end-to-end outcomes.
  • Gather and communicate the Voice of Customer (VOC) to inform product roadmaps, feature development, and best-practice content (application notes, white papers, and case studies).
  • Represent Thermo Fisher Scientific at industry events—including conferences, workshops, and webinars—by delivering workflow-based technical presentations and thought leadership.

How You Will Get There

Education

  • BSc/MSc/PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or a related discipline (or equivalent bioprocessing experience).

Experience

  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in bioprocessing (Process Development, MSAT, or cGMP Manufacturing) with proficiency in at least one of the following:
  • Single-use bioreactors (5–2,000 L+), cell culture, or perfusion systems
  • Proven record of technical engagement and process troubleshooting in Process Development and cGMP environments.
  • Experience supporting scale-up, tech transfer, and process optimization projects from development to manufacturing.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Deep understanding of bioprocessing workflows, cGMP principles, and regulatory expectations (FDA, EMA, Annex 1).
  • Ability to interpret URS, P&IDs, batch records, and qualification protocols; comfortable with automation systems and process control HMIs.
  • Skilled in process design, optimization, and workflow consulting, using data-driven analysis to identify improvements.
  • Familiarity with PAT tools , DoE, and QbD principles (ICH Q8/9/10).
  • Knowledge of ASME-BPE standards and risk-based extractables/leachables evaluations for single-use systems.
  • Proficient in data analysis tools (Excel, JMP; scripting a plus) and technical writing.
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and influencing skills; effective in multi-functional collaboration.
  • Experience using Salesforce.com (SFDC CRM) for opportunity and activity tracking.
  • Demonstrates Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Four I’s values: Integrity, Intensity, Innovation, and Involvement.
  • Field travel of up to 50% (2 weeks out of a month) is required.

Our Mission

At Thermo Fisher Scientific, we are driven by our mission to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. Join our Bioproduction team and help our customers deliver life-changing medicines through innovation in bioprocessing and technical partnership.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range estimated for this position based in Massachusetts is $84,000.00–$125,000.00.

This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:

  • A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs

  • Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement

  • At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy

  • Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan

  • Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount

For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards

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