Scientist - I

WorkLlama, Inc.; Rahway (NJ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

WorkLlama, Inc. in Rahway, NJ, is seeking a motivated bioprocess technician to support upstream and downstream operations across mini to pilot-scale systems.

You will perform fermentation and recovery experiments, troubleshoot equipment, and help drive development and optimization in a collaborative, quality-focused environment. The role requires a Bachelor's in a related field and 0–3 years of bioprocessing experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• 0-3 years of experience in bioprocessing, biomanufacturing, or related environments.
• Demonstrated aseptic techniques and bioprocess controls experience.
• Experience operating automated bioprocess equipment (bioreactors, TFF, homogenizers).

Responsibilities

• Execute fermentation experiments across mini, benchtop, and pilot-scale bioreactors.
• Perform downstream unit operations including cell lysis, clarification, TFF, and recovery processes.
• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot automated bioprocess equipment per SOPs.
• Use analytical technologies to monitor biomass, metabolites, and off-gas.
• Maintain accurate documentation of experiments and process data.
• Escalate complex issues and collaborate with senior staff on resolutions.
• Support process scaling activities and data visualization for optimization.
• Promote lab safety and compliance in all activities.

Skills

Aseptic techniques

Bioprocess controls

Documentation

Lab safety & quality

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering/Bioengineering/Biology

Tools

Bioreactors

TFF systems

Homogenizers

Job description

We are seeking a motivated individual to join our bioprocess team, supporting upstream and downstream operations across multiple scales. In this role, you will execute hands-on fermentation and recovery experiments, ranging from mini bioreactors to pilot-scale systems, to drive bioprocess development and optimization. Working within a collaborative, quality-focused environment, you will troubleshoot operations, analyze process data, and contribute to maintaining rigorous safety and compliance standards. This position offers an excellent opportunity to expand your bioprocessing skill set while supporting cutting-edge biomanufacturing workflows.

Responsibilities

• Execute and analyze fermentation experiments across mini, benchtop, and pilot-scale bioreactors to ensure high-quality results.
• Perform downstream unit operations, including cell lysis, clarification, TFF, and recovery processes to meet yield specifications.
• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot automated bioprocess equipment while strictly adhering to established SOPs.
• Utilize common analytical technologies for monitoring biomass, metabolite measurements, and off-gas analysis.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and thorough documentation of all experimental work and process data in compliance with company standards.
• Escalate complex equipment and process issues appropriately and collaborate with senior team members on resolution.
• Perform routine laboratory maintenance, including stocking common supplies, equipment upkeep, and resolving safety/compliance actions.
• Support process scaling activities, data visualization, and optimization efforts using data analysis tools.
• Promote and adhere to laboratory safety regulations, operational best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biological Sciences, or a related scientific/engineering field.

Experience

• 0-3 years of relevant industry experience in bioprocessing, biomanufacturing, or related environments.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of aseptic techniques and general bioprocess controls.
• Proven experience operating automated bioprocess equipment (e.g., bioreactors, TFF systems, homogenizers).
• Preferred hands-on experience with ambr250, bench-scale, or pilot-scale bioreactors.
• Preferred familiarity with downstream purification, Design of Experiments (DoE), process scaling, or working within regulated environments (e.g., cGMP).

Additional Information

• Work Environment: Hands-on, bioprocess laboratory and pilot plant setting.
• Key Skills: Strong organizational abilities, problem-solving aptitude, technical documentation, and a strong commitment to lab safety and quality standards.