GMP Technician I, Upstream

The role

The Technician I, GMP Manufacturing – Upstream will perform the production and cultivation of AAV-based gene therapy products. This role involves executing upstream manufacturing operations, operating equipment, and documenting activities in compliance with cGMP regulations.

What you will do

• Execute upstream manufacturing operations including cell culture expansion, transfection, and harvest steps.
• Prepare and operate bioreactors, centrifuges, filtration systems, and other equipment.
• Perform media and buffer preparation and aseptic transfer of materials.
• Monitor critical process parameters and report deviations.
• Conduct sampling and in-process testing such as cell counts and metabolite analysis.
• Document all manufacturing activities and results in compliance with cGMP.
• Collaborate with QA and QC to investigate deviations and quality incidents.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives.
• Follow safety procedures and environmental health and safety guidelines.
• Participate in training programs.

Required qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field, or relevant industry certifications; or high school diploma with +2 years of related experience.
• Previous experience working in a regulated manufacturing or laboratory environment.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to following SOPs, safety protocols, and regulatory guidelines.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work independently or as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work in a cleanroom environment while wearing appropriate gowning and PPE.
• Ability to lift or move materials up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to perform regular standing, hand manipulation, and use of laboratory equipment.

Nice to have

• Prior experience working in a cGMP manufacturing environment.
• Upstream bioprocessing or biologics manufacturing experience.
• Familiarity with cell culture techniques, bioreactors, centrifuges, and filtration systems.
• Basic understanding of viral vector-based gene therapy processes, principles, and quality requirements.

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance start your first day with 90% of premiums covered for you and your family.
• Competitive paid time off plan.
• 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave.
• Annual bonus opportunities for all full-time team members.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Special employee discounts, including childcare and dependent care savings.
• Onsite fitness facility at The Hearth.
• Mental health counseling and financial planning services through Employee Assistance Program.
• Employer-paid short and long-term disability coverage.
• Fully stocked kitchen with free snacks and beverages.
• Ongoing professional development resources, training, and mentorship programs.

About the company

Forge Biologics aims to enable access to life-changing gene therapies. The team works out of The Hearth, a 200,000-square-foot cGMP facility in Columbus, Ohio.