Process Development Associate-I

Our world needs ideas! As one of the world''s most research-intensive chemical companies, we have been developing leading solutions for numerous sectors - from construction to photovoltaics and cosmetics to rubber - for over 100 years. We have a global presence with production sites on three continents and 14,300 employees from 70 nations. Wacker Biotech, as part of WACKER, is a leading global biotechnology organization specializing in the production of biopharmaceuticals. The company has outstanding technologies for the rapid, efficient and thus cost-effective production of therapeutic proteins for clinical and commercial supply. Currently it is the biggest dedicated microbial Contract Development & Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) in the world. Its four dedicated and fast-growing production sites are currently based in Germany (Halle and Jena), The Netherlands (Amsterdam) and The United States (San Diego, CA). Our regional presence in the U.S. is focused on GMP-compliant manufacturing of plasmid DNA products up to 500L. The team has extensive experience up to phase III clinical supply and successfully released more than 100 GMP batches for advanced therapy applications. At our San Diego site, we are currently looking for a Process Development Associate-I to join our growing team. Job Responsibilities The PD Associate will be responsible for performing upstream and downstream manufacturing processes on plasmid DNA, RNA, and protein biologics. The PD Associate will work with scientists, engineers, operators, and other associated groups to optimize, implement, and tech transfer new processes and to troubleshoot any process-related problems. The PD Associate will execute bench-scale experiments in bacterial fermentation and biologics purification as a primary responsibility. Train on and perform buffer/media preparation, cell banking, bacterial fermentation, lysis, and/or plasmid DNA chromatography operations. Operate and maintain general lab equipment such as glass washers, autoclaves, scales, stir plates, mixers, spectrophotometers, and pH and conductivity meters. Assist in developing and revising SOPs as well as performing periodic revisions to ensure the procedures are up to date to current standards. Work with R&D, MFG, and QC groups to facilitate technology transfers. Qualifications Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, Chemistry, or related scientific discipline Minimum 1 year of experience in biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry performing in a process development, R&D, or manufacturing role Excellent written and verbal skills Familiar with Microsoft Office applications Experience in fermentation, standard recovery, and/or purification processes for plasmid DNA Experience in documenting work in laboratory notebooks, presentations, and written reports Knowledge of general laboratory techniques such as spectrometry, pH and conductivity, gel electrophoresis, etc. Excellent organizational skills and problem-solving abilities The following skills are highly desirable but not required: o Expertise with general molecular biology techniques o Experience with protein manufacturing o Experience with mRNA production o Experience with viral vector plasmid production o Experience with Sanger sequencing WACKER, as an innovative chemical company, makes a vital contribution toward improving the quality of life around the world by developing intelligent solutions for sustainable growth. Our culture focuses on building and retaining diverse and inclusive teams. WACKER offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, competitive benefit offerings and beyond through giving back to our communities. Be part of our WACKER family, across all nations! We are looking forward to your online application at Reference Code: 16522 The information contained herein is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. A minimum requirement for this US-based position is the ability to work legally in the United States on a permanent unrestricted basis. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position, including for any type of US permanent residency (e.g., for a Green card). WACKER is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. Nearest Major Market: San Diego

Created: 2025-11-15