Job Details

Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking two Upstream Process Development Associates for 6-month contract opportunities with one of our clients, a leading biologics CDMO in Emeryville, CA. If you are driven by the prospect of translating cutting-edge scientific discoveries into tangible advancements and are poised to advance your career, join us as we pioneer progress in the biotechnology and medical device industries.

Workplace: Emeryville, CA.

Position Title: Upstream Process Development Associate

Position Type: 6-month Contract

Pay rate: $30-38 per hour

Transform the Future of Biomanufacturing

A pioneering Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), located in the San Francisco Bay Area and specializing in antibody and biologic therapeutics, is seeking an Upstream Process Development Associate. In this critical role, you'll contribute to advancing life-changing therapies for biotechnology clients worldwide, while furthering your career alongside recognized industry experts in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

About the Role

As an integral team member, you'll be hands-on in developing and optimizing mammalian cell culture processes using cutting-edge bench-scale bioreactors. Reporting to senior upstream leadership, you will partner with cross-disciplinary teams to deliver robust, scalable bioprocess solutions and support tech transfer from bench to manufacturing. This opportunity offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the ability to help shape the future of bioprocessing in a confidential, client-focused setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute mammalian cell culture experiments with shake flasks and bench-scale bioreactors (3L–50L), following defined protocols and project objectives
• Prepare and optimize media, feeds, buffers, and cell culture reagents
• Conduct all steps of upstream operations, including inoculation, feeding, sampling, and harvest, to ensure high product quality
• Monitor and control critical process parameters (pH, DO, agitation, temperature, gas flow) for process robustness
• Collect, analyze, and summarize experimental data (cell growth, viability, metabolite analysis, product titer); contribute to technical reports and protocol updates
• Maintain accurate and compliant laboratory documentation in electronic lab notebooks (ELN) or other record-keeping systems
• Perform routine upstream analytics such as cell counting, viability, osmolality, glucose/lactate, and metabolite analysis
• Participate in troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives; support equipment calibration and upkeep
• Collaborate closely with Downstream Processing, Analytical Development, and Manufacturing teams for successful tech transfer

What You Bring

• Experience with common upstream process development tools and analytics
• Flexibility to occasionally support off-shift or weekend activities as project needs arise
• Ability to work independently while seamlessly collaborating in a team-oriented environment
• Strong experimental and organizational skills; clear communication and diligent documentation
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability and scientific rigor

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• 1–3 years of hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture or upstream process development (industry or academic labs)
• Proficiency in handling shake flasks, bench-scale bioreactors, and CHO or similar production cell lines

Why Join Us?

• Make a meaningful impact on biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing
• Work alongside and learn from expert colleagues within a collaborative, innovation-driven environment
• Benefit from competitive pay, full benefits, and rich opportunities for career growth in the Bay Area's thriving biotech sector
• Be part of a confidential, specialized organization dedicated to quality, innovation, and client service

Ready to elevate your upstream process development career?

Apply now and join us in shaping the future of biologics.