Pilot Plant Downstream Engineer
- Full-time
- Compensation: USD30.00 - USD34.00 - hourly
Company Description
The work we do at Eurofins matters, and so do our employees. At Eurofins, we put a focus on your professional growth. We provide our employees the ability to break into the biopharmaceutical industry and grow from the bottom up. We have the supportive teams and tools available to invest in you while also affording you work-life balance and a competitive benefits package.
Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins works with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate. Eurofins believes it is a global leader in food, environmental, pharmaceutical and cosmetics products testing and in agroscience CRO services. It is also one of the global independent market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, CDMO, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career, apply with us today!
Job Description
The Pilot Plant Downstream Engineer plays a key role within R&D Pilot Operations, serving as a critical technical link between lab‑scale process development and full‑scale GMP manufacturing. This engineer will independently execute both routine and complex downstream purification operations, contribute to experimental planning, support documentation development (SOPs, batch records, reports), and perform data analysis using Spotfire or equivalent tools. Leveraging broad knowledge of downstream processes, industry practices, and scientific principles, the individual will consistently deliver high‑quality, timely, and reproducible results. Expertise in downstream operations—such as harvest clarification, chromatography, filtration, and buffer preparation—is required. Experience with AKTA systems and Unicorn software is preferred. Familiarity with upstream pilot‑scale operations is also valued.
Accountabilities
80% – Pilot-Scale Downstream Operations
- Execute non‑GMP downstream purification activities at pilot scale (50–1000 L) to support new product development, material supply, process characterization, and demonstration batches across the full development lifecycle, including post‑launch programs.
- Partner with Process Development and Manufacturing Sciences to troubleshoot downstream issues and contribute to large‑scale process investigations.
- Manage operational details such as long‑lead material tracking, sample planning, equipment scheduling, material ordering, and vendor coordination.
- Independently collect, interpret, and trend process data; identify deviations, patterns, and opportunities for optimization.
- Present results, technical challenges, and proposed solutions in project and departmental meetings.
- Contribute to the drafting and revision of pilot‑scale procedures, batch records, and technical documentation supporting process transfers and scale‑up.
- Support global technology transfer by providing technical insights, process data, and operational expertise.
- Assist with authorship of technical reports, study protocols, internal presentations, and—when applicable—scientific abstracts or conference materials.
20% – Technology & Digital Innovation
- Identify, evaluate, and integrate new pilot‑scale technologies and digital tools to enhance R&D operational flexibility and downstream process capability.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, process robustness, and advanced data analytics.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, Pharmacy, or related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience, or a Master’s degree (industry experience preferred).
- Required: hands‑on experience with downstream purification (chromatography, UF/DF, TFF, depth/sterile filtration).
- Experience supporting non‑GMP pilot‑plant operations at 50–1000 L bioreactor or equivalent downstream scale.
- Working knowledge of AKTA chromatography systems and Unicorn software preferred.
- Strong scientific problem‑solving and data analysis skills.
- Excellent communication and documentation abilities.
- Effective collaborator able to work across multi‑functional teams.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
- Proficiency with laboratory and pilot‑scale equipment; upstream familiarity is a plus.
- Ability to wear PPE and perform physical tasks including lifting up to 25 lbs, standing up to 4 hours, and climbing ladders or accessing equipment platforms.
- Authorized to work in the United States indefinitely without restriction or sponsorship.
Additional Information
What to Expect in the Hiring Process:
- 10-15 Minute Phone Interview with Region Recruiter
- 45-60 Minute Virtual Interview with Manager and/or Group Leader
- 45-60 Minute Onsite to Meet the Team
The position is Full Time, Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. Candidates currently living within a commutable distance of Lexington, MA, are encouraged to apply.
What We Offer:
- Excellent full-time benefits, including comprehensive medical coverage, dental, and vision options
- Life and disability insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Yearly goal-based bonus & eligibility for merit-based increases
- Hourly rate is between $30-34
Eurofins USA PSS Insourcing Solutions is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.