Senior Process Development Scientist will be responsible for designing, planning, and executing bench-scale experiments on schedule to develop, characterize, and optimize protein production from microbial manufacturing processes. The Senior PD Scientist will work with scientists, engineers, operators, and other associated groups to optimize, implement, and tech transfer new processes suitable for GMP manufacturing at larger scales and to troubleshoot any process-related problems.

Essential functions of this position:

• Independently develop, optimize, and execute protein manufacturing processes with a focus on downstream and analytics.  Ensure the scale-up and transferability of these processes to manufacturing groups.  Train and supervise junior scientists and manufacturing personnel on these processes.
• Introduce innovative solutions for technical problems and anticipate solutions for future business opportunities.  Drive technology development and lead transfer of these solutions into manufacturing.
• Regularly complete complex assignments and devise new approaches to solve technical challenges and address business/customer needs.
• Collaborate with Business Development Project Management, and Marketing groups to engage as a subject matter expert in meetings with customers and clients.
• Prepare slides and content for presentations for clients and conferences.

Position Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related scientific discipline.
• 5-10 years of experience in biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry or a comparable academic institution, performing in a process development, R&D, or manufacturing role.
• Travel as necessary for technology transfers and/or conference presentations
• Expert knowledge of state-of-the-art techniques for microbial fermentation, mechanical lysis, tangential flow filtration, and/or purification processes for protein, and the ability to apply them; some knowledge of alkaline lysis for pDNA production is preferred.
• Demonstrated advanced project planning skills including reviewing technical information and using this information to independently plan and perform experiments.
• Prepare and review technical reports without assistance from others.  Present technical developments to management, stakeholders, and at industry conferences. 
• Effectively communicate and report the status of current projects to senior management and stakeholders. 
• Expert knowledge of project management concepts and the ability to execute project milestones on schedule.
• Expert knowledge of protein related purification and analytics. Some knowledge of pDNA and/or RNA downstream purification and analytics is preferred.
• Willingness to prepare and give presentations (with minimal oversight) at conferences or to customers, traveling as necessary.
• Experience with pDNA and/or mRNA production is a plus.
• Knowledge and experience with process characterization is desirable.

The anticipated salary range for candidates who will work in San Diego is $110,000-$125,000. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and length of experience within the job, type and length of experience within the industry, education, etc. Wacker is a multi-state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions that work in other states.

• Compensation and Incentive plans
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance effective day 1
• Paid Time Off in addition to personal days and holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Wellbeing fund
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements
• 401(k) with company match
• Education Assistance Program
• Career development and advancement opportunities
• Support for Community Involvement