What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Research Associate - Pilot Lab (Scale-up / Pilot Operations) position at Actalent?
Description
Scientist I – Pilot Lab (Scale‑Up & Pilot Operations)
Location: North Carolina
Employment Type: Contract
About the Role
We are seeking a Scientist I – Pilot Lab to support pilot‑scale execution and process scale‑up activities for biologic drug substance programs. This role will be part of a technical operations team responsible for executing upstream and downstream processes to support preclinical and early‑stage development efforts.
The position is highly hands‑on and execution‑focused, requiring comfort working with single‑use equipment, pilot‑scale bioreactors, and downstream unit operations. Candidates with experience in either upstream or downstream processing are encouraged to apply; exposure to both is a strong advantage.
Key Responsibilities:
Execute pilot‑scale upstream and/or downstream processes to support scale‑up activities
Prepare pilot‑scale buffers, media, and feeds
Perform lab stocking, equipment setup, and parts sanitization
Calibrate and maintain pH and conductivity meters and other routine lab equipment
Support bioreactor operations, including sampling and feeding
Perform column packing/unpacking and chromatography step execution
Execute normal‑flow filtration (NFF) and tangential flow filtration (TFF); high‑concentration TFF experience is a plus
Collect, label, and submit samples for analytical testing
Document work in compliance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP)
Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams including upstream, downstream, analytical, and pilot groups
Manage multiple activities in parallel to support fast‑paced pilot schedules
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree with 4 years of relevant industry experience, or
Master’s degree with 2 years of relevant industry experience, or
PhD with relevant hands‑on laboratory or pilot‑scale experience
Top Skills Details
Pilot-scale bioprocess execution, Single-use systems, Process execution, Bioreactor operations, Chromatography, Filtration Operations, GDP, Buffer prep
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with single‑use bioprocess equipment (e.g., XDR bioreactors, AKTA Ready systems, aseptic connectors, tubing welders)
Pilot‑scale bioreactor or downstream process execution experience
Exposure to both upstream and downstream operations
Strong understanding of bioprocess fundamentals and lab execution
Ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues in real time
Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills
Comfortable working in a dynamic, hands‑on pilot environment
Experience Level
Intermediate Level
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Durham, NC.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $40.00 - $50.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Durham,NC.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Mar 20, 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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
Salary : $40 - $50