Associate Engineer – Primary Container Testing, Characterization & Qualification (Biopharmaceuticals) - JP16067

3 Key Consulting; Thousand Oaks (CA); Hybrid; USD 41,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

3key Consulting, Inc. is seeking an Associate Engineer – Bioscience for a direct client engagement in Thousand Oaks, CA.

The role focuses on primary container testing, characterization and qualification within a biopharmaceutical setting, requiring cross‑functional collaboration and hands‑on lab work. The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in Bioscience or Engineering, strong data analytics skills, and flexibility for hybrid work (onsite 3 days/week).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Bioscience or Engineering preferred
• Strong data analytics skills
• Experience in biotech/pharmaceutical labs is helpful

Responsibilities

• Design studies and draft protocols.
• Compile historical data from analytical systems.
• Analyze data and present results.
• Write summary reports.
• Perform lab testing using equipment listed in the posting.

Job description

Associate Engineer – Primary Container Testing, Characterization & Qualification (Biopharmaceuticals) - JP16067

• Thousand Oaks, CA
• Biotech/Pharmaceutical

Job Posting JP16067 ($30 - $33/hour W2)

Location Thousand Oaks, CA 91320 (hybrid; onsite 3 days per week)

Employment Type Contract Business Unit Container Science & Engineering, MSE under CPO Duration 18 months; possible extension Posting Date 11/3/2026 Work Arrangement Candidates within a 50-mile drive or willing to relocate

3 Key Consulting is hiring an Associate Engineer – Bioscience with strong data analytics skills for a consulting engagement with our direct client, a leading global biopharmaceutical company.

Ideal Candidate

Flexible to work overtime during the week when necessary; workdays exceeding 12 hours are rare. A bachelor’s degree in Bioscience or Engineering is preferred.

Job Description

This position reports to the Container Science and Engineering department within MSE under CPO in Thousand Oaks, CA. The role supports senior staff in initiating, designing and delivering projects, particularly in primary container design, characterization and qualification. The Associate Engineer applies engineering principles, technical skills and cross-functional communication to support multiple projects involving new or modified products, processes, tooling or equipment to improve quality and reliability and reduce cost.

Responsibilities

• Gather user requirements and translate them into technical documentation for execution using basic engineering skills and practices.
• Support project definition through engineering studies and assessments of drug delivery systems.
• Analyze data in detail to support informed decisions by senior staff.
• Perform engineering studies and assessments for device and primary container characterization and qualification.
• Assist in qualifying new primary container platforms.
• Provide hands‑on technical support for primary component issues involving customer complaints, aseptic filling, lyophilization and inspection operations in commercial biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

Why the Position Is Open

Planned project.

Skills

• Strong oral communication and presentation skills.
• Strong technical writing skills preferred.
• Experience analyzing data generated from a variety of analytical techniques preferred.
• Previous laboratory experience helpful, but not required.

Top Must-Have Skills

• Technical writing skills.
• Strong ability to analyze data from various analytical techniques and systems (preferred).
• Prior experience in engineering or biochemistry laboratories (helpful but not required).

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

Working with engineers and senior staff, the Associate Engineer will:

• Design studies and draft protocols.
• Compile historical data from different analytical systems.
• Analyze data and present results.
• Write summary reports.
• Execute protocols and perform laboratory testing using equipment such as vacuum decay leak testers, Instron force testers, balances, microscopes, pressure chambers, calipers, optical comparators, bore gauges, automated stoppering units, pipettes and decrimpers.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree OR associate degree plus 4 years of experience OR high school diploma/GED plus 6 years of experience. A bachelor’s degree in Science or Engineering is preferred.

Scheduling and Location Requirements

• Must be able to work onsite in Thousand Oaks, CA three days per week.
• Must be flexible to work overtime when needed.
• Local candidates preferred; candidates willing to relocate may also be considered.

Interview Process

One-on-one phone screening, followed by an in-person panel interview with approximately 6–10 interviewers. Virtual interviews are available for nonlocal candidates. Interviews may begin immediately.