UPSTREAM MANUFACTURING ASSOCIATE I

Upstream Manufacturing Associate I

Location: Pennington, New Jersey

Category: Manufacturing

Salary: Apply for details

Country: United States

Employment: Contract

Worksite: On-Site

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Job Description Pay range: 20-28/hr

• depending on experience

Position Overview

The Upstream Manufacturing Associate I is responsible for executing day-to-day upstream manufacturing operations in a cGMP cleanroom environment. This position supports cell culture manufacturing activities including media and buffer preparation, seed train expansion, bioreactor operations, harvest processing, equipment cleaning, and aseptic processing while ensuring compliance with GMP requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Upstream Manufacturing Operations

• Prepare media and buffers according to approved procedures and batch records.
• Perform vial thaw, shake flask culture, seed train expansion, and bioreactor support activities.
• Support fed-batch and perfusion bioreactor operations.
• Execute harvest and filtration activities.
• Perform equipment setup, cleaning, sanitization, and routine maintenance activities.

Aseptic Processing

• Perform manufacturing activities within classified cleanroom environments.
• Adhere to aseptic techniques and contamination control procedures.
• Follow gowning and cleanroom behavior requirements.

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete batch records, logbooks, and associated GMP documentation accurately and contemporaneously.
• Follow SOPs, batch records, and work instructions.
• Report deviations, equipment issues, and atypical events to supervision.
• Support internal audits and inspection readiness activities.

Continuous Improvement

• Participate in training programs and qualification activities.
• Support process improvement initiatives and operational excellence projects.

Qualifications Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Life Sciences, or a related discipline with 0-2 years of relevant experience.
• High School Diploma/GED with 4+ years of relevant biopharmaceutical manufacturing experience may be considered.

Required Skills

• Basic understanding of biological manufacturing and cell culture processes.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation practices.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of cGMP requirements is preferred.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with:
• Cell culture operations
• Shake flask cultivation
• Bioreactor systems
• Buffer and media preparation
• Single-use technologies
• Aseptic processing

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in cleanroom environments while wearing required PPE.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, sex, gender identity or expression, disability, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations. It is our policy not to discriminate against any applicant or employee, and we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment across all locations in which we operate. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our mission and enhance our ability to serve clients globally. If you have a disability or require any reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please inform your recruiter or contact us(opens in new tab) directly so that we can explore the appropriate arrangements.

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The Planet Group of Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.