Development Associate I - Downstream Process Development
The Development Associate I in Downstream Process Development supports the purification and process development of therapeutic biologics, primarily monoclonal antibodies, through small-scale experiments and analytical testing. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams to advance production processes from preclinical to late-stage development while maintaining laboratory safety and efficiency.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
The Development Associate I — Downstream Process Development will support downstream process development for therapeutic biologics. This is a hands-on lab role working with a team of scientists and engineers to purify proteins and build scalable purification processes. You will collaborate cross-functionally with upstream, analytical, bioanalytical, and formulation teams.
- Perform small-scale downstream process development experiments supporting monoclonal antibody purification (liquid chromatography, tangential flow filtration)
- Prepare process intermediates and experimental samples for analytical testing
- Prepare purified protein materials to support process development studies and cross-functional activities
- Run analytical checks such as UV-visible spectrophotometry, turbidimetry, density, pH, and conductivity measurements
- Collaborate closely with scientists, engineers, and other Process Development team members
- Manage multiple laboratory activities and priorities with attention to detail and follow-through
- Proactively communicate experimental progress, unexpected observations, scheduling needs, and potential challenges
- Prepare clear summaries, presentations, and reports to share results
- Help maintain an organized, efficient, and safe laboratory environment
Qualifications (Required)
- Accredited bachelor’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, or related)
- Foundational knowledge in one or more of: liquid chromatography, membrane filtration, protein chemistry, biochemical engineering, or related principles
- Familiarity with common lab equipment (pH/conductivity/temperature meters; pumps; pressure gauges; balances; pipettes; benchtop centrifuges)
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Comfortable asking questions, sharing observations, and keeping teammates informed
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities
- Proactive approach and willingness to take ownership of assigned responsibilities
- Curiosity, enthusiasm for learning, and openness to feedback and coaching
- Ability to follow SOPs and established laboratory and industry safety practices
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 pounds
Preferred Qualifications
- Academic, internship, research, or industry experience with protein purification or downstream processing
- Experience with ÄKTA chromatography systems and UNICORN software
- Exposure to pilot-scale or manufacturing-scale biotechnology operations
- Experience presenting scientific results via lab meetings, research projects, posters, or similar settings
Compensation & Benefits
The pay range for candidates who will work or reside in the state of Washington (Bothell, WA) is $32.00/hour — $39.00/hour. This position is also eligible for an 8% bonus target based on company and individual performance. Benefits include flexible paid time off (PTO), medical, dental and vision coverage, and company 401(k) match. Final pay offered may vary based on experience, qualifications, and other permitted factors.
Travel
- Some domestic travel may be required
Additional Information
- Employment type: FULL_TIME
- If selected, you will be employed directly by Confidential Client (Scientific & QA). Careertakes is supporting this hiring process as an external recruiting platform.
- Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities during the application process — applicants should request accommodations through the client’s published process.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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