Process Engineer

Atum - DNA 2.0•Newark, CA

61d•$130,000

About The Position

At ATUM we are industrializing biotechnology from Genes to Proteins to Cell Lines. ATUM’s tools and solutions are fueling the transformation of biology from a discovery science to a sustainable engineering discipline. By collaborating with our clients, ATUM develops innovative technologies and services to accelerate breakthroughs and move research & development further faster. Our focus on scientist-to-scientist problem solving creates long-term partnerships with our clients. For over 20 years we have been at the intersection of synthetic biology and machine learning and its application across a multitude of industries from pharmaceuticals to biocatalysis to food. ATUM is looking for a Process Engineer. This role is a full time position. Overview We are seeking a Process Engineer to join our synthetic biology team focused on DNA synthesis, transient protein expression, purification, and cell line development. This role is hands-on and lab-based, involving both R&D and process optimization with a focus on supporting scalable, automated high-throughput workflows that can be transferred into manufacturing operations.

Requirements

BS/MS/PhD in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field.
7+ years of relevant laboratory experience in bioprocess or synthetic biology settings (industry experience preferred).
Strong background in protein expression, purification, and cell culture (HEK, CHO, E. coli, yeast).
Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, transfection, chromatography, and protein quantification assays.
Demonstrated ability to develop and optimize scalable or automated processes.
Familiarity with DOE (Design of Experiments) and data-driven process improvement.
Excellent communication, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience with automation platforms (e.g., liquid handlers, high-throughput screening systems, script writing and C#).
Exposure to tech transfer environments.
Working knowledge of synthetic biology tools for DNA assembly or protein engineering.

Responsibilities

Design, execute, and analyze experiments supporting DNA synthesis, protein expression, cell line development, and purification workflows.
Develop, optimize, and scale bioprocesses from R&D through tech transfer to manufacturing.
Implement high-throughput methods for liquid handling, protein production and purification suitable for automation in manufacturing.
Collaborate with molecular biology, bioinformatics, and manufacturing teams to enhance workflow efficiency and reproducibility.
Characterize and troubleshoot host expression systems and respective handling systems including, but not limited to HEK, CHO, E. coli, and yeast.
Apply statistical and analytical tools to accelerate and refine process development and optimization, including Design of Experiments.
Maintain accurate experimental records and author technical reports, SOPs, and process documentation.