Associate Specialist Downstream Operations

For one of our clients, we are currently seeking an Associate Specialist Downstream Operations (m/w/d) to join their team onsite in Luzern.

This is an Associate Specialist position within the Downstream Operations group at our company in the greater Lucerne area. This position requires full-time physical presence at the site to support manufacturing and to enable optimal integration into an existing team.

As a member of the manufacturing team at our company, you will be responsible for supporting various activities related to the implementation and GMP manufacturing of early-phase clinical therapies. 

Responsibilities would primarily entail, but are not limited to, the following:

• Set up, practical execution and troubleshooting of downstream processes under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) 
• Knowledge of and compliance to GMP principles and EHS standards in the area of responsibility
• Involvement in continuous improvement efforts and support for the implementation of new technologies, including non-GMP engineering runs or testing activities
• Creation and updates of SOPs and (electronic) master batch records. Technical review of various documentation related to process transfer and GMP manufacturing
• Material management using ERP systems (SAP)
• Participation in sampling activities (including occasional weekend work) or on-call duties, as required by the process scheduling. Typical manufacturing activities do not include shift work. 

To be successful in this role, you will have the following:

• Educational background in a relevant discipline 
• A minimum of 1-2 years of work experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry. 
• Ability to solve problems and take new perspectives on existing solutions with a desire to continuously learn, improve and develop. 
• Ability to perform under pressure in a complex GMP environment and assume responsibility. Flexible attitude when working with internal or external stakeholders to achieve ambitious targets.
• Business Fluent in English and German:
• Effective oral / written communication skills in German (C1)
• Oral / written communication skills in English (B2+)
• Residence within approximately 30 minutes commuting distance from Schachen (LU) or willingness to relocate
• Driver’s license (B) and access to a personal car to enable on-call duties

Preferred Experience and Skills: 

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant discipline
• Prior experience in the manufacturing of biologics under GMP, ideally including experience operating capturing and polishing chromatography, virus filtration, UFDF, formulation, fill & freeze
• Familiarity with the use of automated systems in manufacturing (DeltaV) and electronic batch records (PAS-X)

Additional Information:

• Site-based role: 5 days per week, 40 hours weekly
•  Long-term temporary contract: From 01/08/2026 to 31/07/2027
• Onsite presence required to fully support the team and operational activities in the greater Lucerne area

 

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