Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development

astrazeneca· 4314 AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP Company
Apply Now ↗
📍 US – Santa Monica Colorado Avenue – CAFull time💰 USD 81K–122K

About this role

Position Summary 

We are seeking a highly motivated Process Engineer to support late-stage cell therapy process development and characterization activities. In this role, you will play critical role in advancing late-stage cell therapy process development, process characterization, and BLA‑enabling studies. 
 
This position focuses specifically on cell therapy unit operations, including T-cell enrichment, activation, transduction, washes and harvest either semi-automated or fully automated equipment.  

The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, hands-on experience with cell therapy unit operations, and demonstrates success in supporting clinical and commercial readiness. 

Key Responsibilities 

Process development and characterization 

  • Design, execute, and support autologous or allogenic cell therapy process optimization and robustness studies.   
  • Drive implementation of closed-system operations and automation strategies to support scalability and compliance.  
  • Plan and execute process characterization studies (DOE, multivariate studies, scale‑down models, and scale‑up assessments) in alignment with QbD and ICH guidelines. 
  • Perform data analysis, write technical reports, and present outcome of the studies to cross‑functional teams and governance forums. 
  • Conduct batch record review, deviation assessment, and data trending to ensure robustness of cell therapy manufacturing processes. 
  • Apply AI‑enabled tools and digital analytics to accelerate data review, trend analysis, batch record evaluation, and process understanding. 

PPQ, Tech Transfer & Manufacturing Readiness 

  • Provide on‑the‑floor technical support during scale‑up, engineering runs, PPQ batches, and commercial manufacturing campaigns (including off‑shift support when required). 
  • Support raw material risk assessments, comparability studies, and process risk evaluations across facilities and platforms. 

Cross‑Functional Collaboration 

  • Work closely with analytical sciences and manufacturing science and technology teams to ensure end‑to‑end process alignment. 
  • Support lifecycle management, post‑approval changes, and continuous improvement initiatives for cell therapy processes. 

Required Qualifications 

  • M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field with 2+ years of industry experience; OR B.S. with 7+ years of hands‑on industry experience. 
  • Strong technical expertise in key cell therapy unit operations (e.g., cell isolation, activation, transduction, expansion, harvest, formulation, cryopreservation) or biologics. 
  • Demonstrated experience with GMP operations and late‑stage / commercial readiness. 
  • Proven ability to analyze complex datasets, develop sound recommendations, and communicate clearly across levels 
  • Experience with late‑stage development and process characterization principles for cell therapy processes. 
  • Demonstrated proficiency in applying AI tools and digital solutions to data analysis, documentation, and workflow automation. 
  • Experience working in GMP environments, including batch record execution or review, deviations, and investigations. 
  • Strong technical writing, data analysis, and problem‑solving skills. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Familiarity with automation platforms (e.g., CliniMACS Prodigy, Lovo, G-Rex, Wave bioreactors). 
  • Experience implementing closed, automated, or high‑throughput systems. 
  • Experience designing and executing DOE and multivariate data analysis for cell therapy processes. 
  • Experience with JMP or similar statistical analysis tools. 
  • Formal training or demonstrated application of digitalization, automation, or AI‑enabled tools in bioprocess development. 

Key Competencies 

  • Strong experimental design and execution skills. 
  • Excellent cross‑functional communication and collaboration. 
  • Ability to operate effectively in fast‑paced, late‑stage development environments. 
  • Scientific curiosity, ownership mindset, and willingness to support manufacturing operations. 

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $81K to $122K. Our positions offer eligibility for multiple incentives an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

# Hybrid # Cell Therapy

Date Posted

22-Sep-2026

Closing Date

08-Oct-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development role at astrazeneca?
The listed salary for this Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development position at astrazeneca is USD 81K–122K. This is an Full time role.
Where is the Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development position at astrazeneca located?
This Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development role at astrazeneca is based in US – Santa Monica Colorado Avenue – CA. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development role at astrazeneca full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development role in the 4314 AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP Company department at astrazeneca.
Which team or department does the Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development at astrazeneca belong to?
This Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development position is part of the 4314 AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP Company department at astrazeneca. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development position at astrazeneca?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to astrazeneca's official application portal hosted on workday where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development job at astrazeneca posted?
This Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development position at astrazeneca was posted on Sep 23, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Process Engineer, Cell Therapy Process Development
astrazeneca · 💰 USD 81K–122K
Apply for this role ↗

You'll be redirected to astrazeneca's official application page on Workday.