Associate I, Technical Development Operations

Associate I, Technical Development Operations at Planet Pharma Associate I, Technical Development Operations at Planet Pharma in Daly City, California Posted in 29 minutes ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

Location:

South San Francisco, CA (100% On-site)

Position Type:

6-Month Contract (May extend or convert to permanent)

Schedule:

M-F, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM or 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Occasional weekend work, approx. one day/month)

Compensation:

$40.54/hour W2

Perks:

Free on-site parking! About the Role We are seeking a motivated, collaborative, and hands-on Associate to join our Technical Development Department within the Cell and Gene Therapy Research Division. This is a dynamic, lab-centric role (75% lab, 25% office) supporting both upstream and downstream process development activities , as well as operations in our pilot plant for gene therapy programs. This is a fantastic entry-to-early career opportunity to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge AAV (Adeno-Associated Virus) production and process development. The ideal candidate is someone with a strong desire to learn, a positive attitude, and a flexible mindset.

Top Skills & Experience We Are Looking For Experience Level:

0-3 years of bioprocess experience. Recent graduates with strong applicable educational backgrounds/internships and the right attitude are highly encouraged to apply!

Education:

BS in Life Sciences, Bioengineering, or a related discipline. (Please note: Master's degrees will be considered based on motivation; PhD candidates are overqualified for this specific role).

The Right Fit:

Candidates with 5+ years of experience will not be a fit for this junior-level team structure. We care deeply about your mindset, coachability, and eagerness to dive into lab work. Essential Job Responsibilities 75%

Lab Operations:

Set up, monitor, and take down experiments and equipment for both upstream and downstream processes.

Upstream Duties:

Execute experiments for cell culture and transfections in shake flasks and bioreactors (primarily Sartorius and Wave systems); maintain seed train cell cultures (vial thaws through expansions); perform cell culture harvest operations.

Downstream Duties:

Support purification unit operations including column packing, filtration, chromatography, and Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF).

Documentation & Digital Records:

Maintain meticulous digital records of all research production activities using in-house systems and shared digital document repositories; assist with document preparation and revisions.

Safety & Collaboration:

Follow all laboratory safety procedures, participate in safety meetings, and maintain a highly collaborative, positive attitude in a team-focused environment.

Qualifications Required:

BS in Life Sciences, Engineering, or equivalent experience. 0-2+ years of experience working in a pharmaceutical/biologics lab or manufacturing environment (Industry internships count!). Foundational understanding of upstream and/or downstream process theory (Cell Culture, Harvest, TFF, Column Chromatography). Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and strong digital record-keeping skills. Flexibility to work outside of normal business hours/overtime as required (occasional weekend work, approx. once a month). Preferred (Nice to Have): Direct experience with AAV or gene therapy processes. Experience with single-use/disposable manufacturing technologies (e.g., sterile bags, tubing welders). Ability to multi-task and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities.