Associate Downstream Processing Scientist - II

WorkLlama, Inc.; Rahway (NJ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

WorkLlama, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Bioprocess Engineer to execute fermentation experiments from mini to pilot-scale, delivering high-quality, reproducible data.

You will work with cross-functional scientists to optimize processes, troubleshoot equipment, and uphold safety and compliance in a modern biomanufacturing setting. The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field and 2+ years of bioprocessing experience, including aseptic techniques and downstream

Qualifications

• 2+ years of relevant bioprocessing experience.
• Experience with mini, benchtop, and pilot-scale bioreactors.
• Knowledge of downstream processing including cell lysis and clarification.
• Experience documenting procedures per company standards.

Responsibilities

• Execute and analyze fermentation experiments across mini, benchtop, and pilot-scale bioreactors to deliver reproducible results.
• Perform downstream processing including cell lysis, clarification, and recovery to meet target yield and quality.
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation of all experimental data per compliance standards.
• Troubleshoot operational issues with senior team members.
• Oversee lab upkeep, inventory, equipment maintenance, and safety/compliance issues.
• Adhere to safety, operating practices, and continuous improvement protocols.

Skills

Bioprocessing

Aseptic techniques

Documentation

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Bioreactors

TFF

Homogenizers

SOP protocols

Job description

oin an innovative bioprocessing team focused on driving excellence in fermentation and downstream operations. In this role, you will play a hands-on part in executing bioprocess experiments across multiple scales—from mini-bioreactors up to pilot scale—while delivering high-quality materials and reproducible data. Working closely with cross-functional scientists and engineers, you will contribute to process optimization, equipment troubleshooting, and operational safety, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in modern biomanufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Execute and analyze fermentation experiments across mini, benchtop, and pilot-scale bioreactors to deliver reproducible, high-quality results.
• Perform downstream processing operations including cell lysis, clarification, and recovery to meet target yield and quality specifications.
• Maintain timely, accurate, and comprehensive documentation of all experimental procedures and process data per company compliance standards.
• Troubleshoot routine bioprocess operational issues while collaborating with senior team members to address complex technical challenges.
• Oversee general laboratory upkeep, including inventory management, equipment maintenance, and prompt resolution of safety and compliance items.
• Adhere to and promote laboratory safety, operational best practices, and continuous improvement protocols.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biological Sciences, or a related field.

Experience

• 2+ years of relevant industry experience in bioprocessing, chemical engineering, or biological sciences.
• Working knowledge of aseptic techniques and standard bioprocess control systems.
• Hands‑on experience operating and troubleshooting automated bioprocess equipment (e.g., bioreactors, TFF, homogenizers) following SOPs.
• Basic understanding of analytical technologies for measuring biomass, metabolites, and off‑gas composition.
• Strong organizational skills with demonstrated proficiency in experimental documentation and routine problem‑solving.

Additional Information

• Preferred Qualifications: Experience with ambr250 platforms, downstream unit operations/protein purification, Design of Experiments (DoE), process scaling, or working within cGMP/regulated environments.
• Work Environment: Active laboratory setting requiring commitment to rigorous safety, quality standards, and collaborative teamwork.