Upstream Process Engineer

Piper Companies is seeking an Upstream Process Engineer to join a leading organization in the biotechnology manufacturing industry for a long-term contract opportunity in Holly Springs, North Carolina.

About the role

The Upstream Process Engineer will provide hands-on manufacturing support for upstream bioprocess operations, serving as a subject matter expert for critical production equipment while partnering with cross-functional teams to ensure reliable and efficient manufacturing performance.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day technical support for upstream manufacturing operations, ensuring process equipment performs safely, efficiently, and in compliance with operational requirements.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts involving bioprocess equipment, automation systems, and manufacturing processes, including issues related to temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and control systems.
• Manage equipment-related investigations, deviations, and change controls while driving timely resolution of manufacturing challenges.
• Collaborate with Maintenance, Automation, Instrumentation & Controls, and Manufacturing teams to optimize equipment reliability and production performance.
• Serve as equipment owner for media preparation systems and support a broad range of upstream equipment including bioreactors, filtration systems, harvest operations, and scale-up technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 6+ years of process engineering experience within a manufacturing environment, preferably supporting biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or biologics production.
• Hands-on experience supporting stainless steel bioprocess equipment and upstream manufacturing operations.
• Strong troubleshooting background involving process controls, automation systems, HMI interfaces, and equipment performance issues.
• Experience with DeltaV systems and the ability to distinguish process-related concerns from automation-related issues during production support activities.
• Demonstrated experience managing deviations, investigations, change controls, and manufacturing equipment improvement initiatives.

Pay

Pay Rate: $60-$70 per hour

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k)
• Additional benefits offered in accordance with company policy and applicable law