Associate Pilot Plant

Must-Have Skill Sets

• Scientific & Mathematical Foundational Core (knowledge of basic scientific/physical concepts such as pH, pressure, flowrate, mass, volume, density, geometry; ability to formulate and manipulate basic algebraic equations; ability to calculate basic quantities such as area, volume, density, flowrates, averages, percentages, dilutions)
• Effective Communication (clear, succinct, complete – both verbally & written)
• Digital Proficiency (ability to use basic computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Google Chrome, Windows File Explorer)

Description

Our lab is known as the Scaleup Lab SUL and is one of three in our Drug Substance Pilot Plant Network. Our primary purpose is to prototype develop and test new technologies intended for next-generation large-scale biomanufacturing applications. The pilot plant also provides critical technical support for advanced technology transfers and molecule process development. We deliver both data and material to support early pre-pivotal and late stage pivotal biologics programs.

We are seeking to hire an associate level candidate to join our small team of scientists and engineers. You will have the rare opportunity to learn and execute both upstream cell culture and downstream purification large-scale processes. You will have the opportunity to learn to troubleshoot novel processes and equipment and become an expert. Join us and see why employees and others consistently rate us as one of America's best places to work.

In this role you will establish the platforms of the future and apply established platform approaches while utilizing problem-solving skills to rapidly solve day-to-day experimental challenges. As such this is a hands-on role where troubleshooting and problem solving are part of the day to day. Additionally you will utilize out-of-the-box thinking to contribute to technology development and demonstrate the desire to expand and develop expertise in both cell culture and purification.

Responsibilities Include

• Perform large-scale upstream cell culture and downstream purification manufacturing operations up to the 200L-500L scale spanning from vial thaw through freezing of formulated drug substance.
• Operate, setup, and troubleshoot bioprocessing equipment such as rocking and single-use bioreactors, single-use chromatography and filtration systems (TFF, VF, UFDF), and others as needed.
• Pack and qualify chromatography columns up to 40 cm in diameter.
• Perform testing of samples on various analytical instruments.
• Document work in electronic lab notebooks per GDP principles while following appropriate SOPs.
• Write, review & revise documentation (SOPs, Manufacturing Procedures (MPs), Forms, Technical Reports, etc).
• Monitor and analyze process performance for atypical trends and improvement opportunities.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and collaborate with Management, Engineering, Automation and others as appropriate to resolve manufacturing events in a timely manner.
• Generate, analyze, and summarize process data to identify and mitigate challenges to future commercial processes, and support new technology development, new product introductions, and facility tech transfers.
• Participate in cross-functional teams and represent Pilot Plant as needed.
• Escalate appropriate concerns to various levels of management when personnel and environmental safety, equipment functionality, product supply, or quality are at risk.

Expectations Include

• Application of process, scientific, operational, and compliance knowledge with analytical and troubleshooting skills to everyday tasks.
• Adherence to all regulatory requirements, written procedures, policies, and safety guidelines at all times.
• Ability to organize work, handle multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to interpret and apply GDP, FAIR, and ALCOA+ principles to everyday work.
• Identify, recommend, and implement improvements related to routine functions (facilitate the drive towards continuous improvement in the plant).
• Maintain an organized and clean workspace. Contributes to general housekeeping and 5S initiatives.
• Demonstrates a sense of ownership and pride in work performed.
• Ability to work in teams to complete operational tasks in a timely manner.
• Creates a positive work environment through interactions with team members.
• Ability to take initiative, follow up, ask questions and always act with honesty and integrity.
• Ability to regularly lift up to 35 lbs, push and pull objects that require up to 50 lbs of force, and work on your feet for long durations.
• Ability to perform physical movements to perform daily tasks on the production floor such as bending, reaching above the head, climbing, kneeling, squatting, stooping, walking up or down stairs, and standing on portable stairs or ladders up to 6 feet off the ground.
• Ability to work some off-hours and weekends due to the nature of the work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

The ideal candidate has a Bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering strongly preferred Physics Bioengineering rather than just Chemistry Biology with approximately 1-5 years of relevant experience academic co-op internship or industry. They bring a strong scientific and mathematical foundation including understanding of pH pressure flow and basic cell metabolism and are comfortable working in a wet lab / pilot plant / operations environment. This is an applied operational role not a research scientist position so please prioritize candidates who are excited about hands-on process development large-scale support and equipment-focused work rather than hypothesis-driven academic research.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Cambridge, MA.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Cambridge,MA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Mar 26, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.