Associate Scientist - upstream

Job Title: Biologics Pilot Lab Process Associate II / Associate Scientist

Location: Foster City, CA (100% Onsite)

Duration: Contract

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated and hands-on Biologics Pilot Lab Process Associate II / Associate Scientist to join our Biologics Pilot Lab team in Foster City, CA. In this role, you will support the development, scale-up, and pilot-scale production of biologic drug candidates by executing upstream bioprocess operations and supporting downstream activities as needed.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced laboratory environment, solving technical challenges, and contributing directly to biologics process development and manufacturing readiness.

Key Responsibilities

Bioprocess Operations

Execute upstream bioprocess unit operations including media preparation, seed train expansion, WAVE bioreactor operations, and 100 500L single-use bioreactor (SUB) cultures.

Prepare media, buffers, reagents, and process solutions required for pilot-scale operations.

Set up, operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain pilot-scale bioprocess equipment.

Support downstream processing activities as needed to ensure successful execution of pilot runs.

Perform equipment cleaning, teardown, and post-run activities.

Documentation & Compliance

Complete batch records, run summaries, logbooks, and controlled documentation accurately and in a timely manner.

Document observations, deviations, and process changes according to established procedures.

Follow SOPs, batch records, and GxP-compliant practices.

Maintain laboratory and pilot plant readiness at all times.

Technical Support & Collaboration

Participate in technology transfer activities to support new biologics programs entering the Pilot Lab.

Monitor process performance and summarize findings for technical discussions.

Present data, results, and observations during team meetings.

Collaborate effectively with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional partners.

Maintain a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Required Qualifications

Familiarity or hands-on experience in biologics pilot lab, pilot plant, or bioprocess development environments.

Experience supporting pilot-scale bioprocess equipment and operations.

Strong technical documentation and communication skills.

Ability to follow SOPs and controlled documentation.

Strong organizational skills and ability to work in a dynamic team environment.

Self-motivated with a problem-solving mindset.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience executing upstream bioprocessing operations end-to-end.

Experience in pilot plant, manufacturing support, process development, or technology transfer environments.

Familiarity with GxP, GMP-adjacent operations, and biologics scale-up activities.

Experience working with electronic batch records and laboratory documentation systems.

Ability to support occasional weekend or extended-hour coverage during pilot runs.

Education & Experience

Associate Degree (AA/AS) in a scientific discipline with 2+ years of relevant industry experience, OR

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field with 0 2 years of relevant experience.

Work Requirements

100% onsite in Foster City, California.

Ability to support occasional weekend work based on pilot run schedules.

Ability to work in a laboratory and pilot plant environment.

What Success Looks Like

Within the first 60 90 days, the successful candidate will:

Independently prepare media and buffers with accuracy and consistency.

Execute bioprocess operations with minimal supervision.

Demonstrate strong documentation practices and operational readiness.

Contribute effectively to pilot-scale biologics production and process improvement efforts.