Protein Purification Scientist II

TekWissen ®; Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

TekWissen LLC is seeking a Scientist II – Protein Purification to join a manufacturing lab focused on protein purification and chromatography. You will execute purification steps, operate FPLC systems, and document results to ensure product quality and compliance.

The role requires hands-on purification experience, strong data integrity, and collaboration with cross-functional teams in a regulated environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related science and 3+ years in protein purification.
• Hands-on experience with FPLC systems (Cytiva ÄKTA or Bio-Rad NGC).
• Knowledge of chromatography principles and protein chemistry.
• Experience working in a GMP/QMS environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform protein purification activities following SOPs and manufacturing docs.
• Operate column chromatography, TFF, buffer prep, SDS‑PAGE and more.
• Maintain accurate batch data records and equipment logs.
• Troubleshoot routine process/equipment issues and escalate as needed.
• Contribute to process improvements and documentation updates.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet quality goals.

Skills

Protein purification

FPLC operations

Chromatography techniques

QC & QMS familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related

Tools

Cytiva ÄKTA systems

Bio-Rad NGC systems

UNICORN software

Job description

Location: Carlsbad CA - 92008

Duration: 12 Months

Job Type: Temporary Assignment

Work Type: Onsite

Shift: First Shift - Monday to Friday

Pay Rate: $28 to $35

Overview:

TekWissen is a global workforce management provider headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan that offers strategic talent solutions to clients worldwide. The job opportunity below is with one of our clients specializing in biotechnology product development services. The client is dedicated to supplying laboratory equipment, chemicals, supplies, and services essential in healthcare, scientific research, safety, and education. As a global leader in serving the scientific community, the organization generates approximately $40 billion in annual revenue and is committed to making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. Their global team delivers innovative technologies, convenient procurement solutions, and pharmaceutical services through industry-leading brands.

Summary

We are seeking a Scientist II – Protein Purification to join a team responsible for protein purification activities in a controlled manufacturing laboratory environment. The ideal candidate will have strong hands‑on experience with protein purification, chromatography techniques, and FPLC systems. This role involves executing manufacturing processes, evaluating process performance, troubleshooting technical issues, maintaining accurate documentation, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. The Scientist II will apply technical knowledge of protein chemistry and downstream processing to ensure product quality, process efficiency, and compliance with established quality and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform protein purification activities in a laboratory environment following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and controlled manufacturing documentation.
• Execute column chromatography, Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF), buffer preparation, SDS‑PAGE analysis, and other protein characterization techniques.
• Operate Cytiva ÄKTA FPLC systems using UNICORN software and Bio‑Rad NGC chromatography systems.
• Apply technical knowledge of protein purification and chromatography to analyze process data, evaluate chromatograms, and monitor process performance.
• Identify, investigate, and troubleshoot routine process and equipment issues, escalating complex technical problems when necessary.
• Maintain accurate Batch Data Records (BDRs), work orders, equipment logs, and other manufacturing documentation.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, materials, product inventories, and associated records.
• Support the preparation, review, and revision of technical documents, including SOPs and manufacturing batch records.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives focused on product quality, yield, process robustness, and operational productivity.
• Support process validation, equipment qualification, investigations, and implementation of new or revised manufacturing procedures.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to achieve production, quality, and technical objectives.
• Ensure compliance with Quality Management System (QMS) requirements, Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) programs, and laboratory safety procedures.
• Maintain familiarity with Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) and safe chemical‑handling practices.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

Required Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant protein purification experience in a manufacturing environment or R&D laboratory.
• Hands‑on experience operating FPLC purification systems, specifically Cytiva ÄKTA or Bio‑Rad NGC, is mandatory.
• Experience with Cytiva ÄKTA systems using UNICORN software and/or Bio‑Rad NGC chromatography systems.
• Experience with chromatography techniques, including affinity, ion‑exchange, size‑exclusion, and/or hydrophobic interaction chromatography.
• Strong understanding of protein chemistry, protein/resin interactions, and chromatography principles.
• Demonstrated ability to execute protein purification processes, analyze results, and troubleshoot routine technical issues.
• Experience with Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) and other downstream protein processing techniques preferred.
• Experience working within a Quality Management System (QMS); familiarity with ISO 9001 and/or GMP environments preferred.
• Strong analytical, scientific troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to execute scientific procedures with limited supervision, interpret results, and communicate findings effectively.
• Excellent attention to detail, documentation practices, and data integrity.
• Strong organizational, collaboration, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced manufacturing laboratory environment.
• Ability to work safely with chemicals and hazardous materials in a controlled laboratory environment.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and regularly lift up to 20 pounds, with occasional lifting of 45 pounds or more with assistance.
• Willingness to work in a +4°C cold room and accommodate varying work schedules as needed.

TekWissen® Group is an equal opportunity employer supporting workforce diversity.