Associate Specialist, Engineering

For over 130 years, we have pioneered groundbreaking science. Today, we are driven by continuous innovation to develop breakthrough medicines, vaccines and technology. Rooted in direct experience on the farm and in the clinic, we work hand in hand with our customers every step of the way. Our singular focus is to empower those who care for animals, helping them manage their vital responsibility with confidence.

About the role

The Associate Specialist, Engineering (Biotechnology Solutions) provides technical support for vaccine and biologics process development and manufacturing within a multidisciplinary environment. This role collaborates cross-functionally with Bioprocess Technology Solutions, Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Research & Development (R&D) to support the development, scale-up, and commercialization of new veterinary products.

Responsibilities

• Contribute as a team member to the development and scale-up of bioprocesses, including microbial, viral, and cell culture systems, as well as downstream purification and final formulation of vaccines and biologics.
• Support technology transfer activities from development into manufacturing, ensuring processes are robust, scalable, and compliant with operational requirements.
• Participate in process development and optimization efforts to meet product quality, safety, consistency, and cost-effectiveness targets.
• Support technical investigations, validation activities, and continuous improvement initiatives, applying a structured and data-driven approach to problem-solving.
• Analyze and troubleshoot issues by considering multiple perspectives, including safety, compliance, process, equipment, and operational factors, to identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with teams such as Manufacturing, Quality Control (QC), R&D, Regulatory, and Technical Services to enable scientific decision-making and project execution.
• Contribute to the evaluation, introduction, and implementation of new technologies to support product and process improvements.
• Support project management activities, including development of project charters, timelines, deliverables, risk identification, and mitigation plans.
• Track and communicate project status, risks, and key milestones to stakeholders; escalate issues proactively as needed.
• Develop, review, and maintain technical documentation, including protocols, reports, validation documents, and change control records, in compliance with regulatory and internal standards.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, USDA, and other applicable regulatory requirements, and support inspection readiness activities.
• Apply standardized engineering and process tools, and support design and execution of experimental studies at laboratory and/or manufacturing scale.
• Demonstrate strong collaboration across global and cross-functional teams, contributing to team effectiveness and knowledge sharing.
• Support environment, health, and safety (EHS) initiatives and continuous improvement efforts within the department.
• Provide training, guidance, and mentorship to junior staff or trainees as needed.
• Participate in off-shift or weekend work, as required to support operations or project timelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or a related discipline (required).
• Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field (preferred).
• Experience in biopharmaceutical or vaccine process development, R&D, or manufacturing environments.
• Strong technical writing, documentation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated project management and organizational capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a hands-on and data-driven approach.
• Understanding of GMP requirements and regulated environments.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results within defined timelines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with bioprocess scale-up and technology transfer.
• Knowledge of vaccine manufacturing processes.
• Working knowledge of USDA regulatory requirements.
• Familiarity with process monitoring, statistical analysis, and data interpretation.

Core Competencies

• Technical expertise in bioprocessing and manufacturing sciences.
• Collaboration and teamwork across functions and geographies.
• Execution excellence with strong attention to detail.
• Adaptability and continuous learning mindset.
• Integrity and commitment to safety, quality, and compliance.

Skills

• Biochemistry
• Biological Engineering
• Cell Cultures
• Chemical Engineering
• Data Analysis
• Detail-Oriented
• Engineering Standards
• Equipment Maintenance
• Estimation and Planning
• Field Failure Analysis
• GMP Compliance
• Identifying Risks
• Mammalian Cell Culture
• Manufacturing Processes
• Manufacturing Quality Control
• Mentorship
• Microbiology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Process Design
• Process Improvements
• Product Formulation
• Regulatory Requirements
• Scientific Problem Solving
• Statistical Analysis

Pay

The salary range for this role is $71,900.00 - $113,200.00. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs. The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family).
• Retirement benefits, including 401(k).
• Paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.

Schedule

• 1st shift - Day.
• 10% travel requirements.
• May require off-shift or weekend work to support operations or project timelines.