Job Title: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician/Cell Therapy Tech

Location: Onsite Rockville MD

Contract: 12 months (with possibility of conversion)

PR: $26/hr

Shift: 7am -5:30pm Wed-Sat

Position Overview

AstraZeneca is seeking an Associate Specialist – Cell Therapy Manufacturing to support the startup and cGMP operations of its new Cell Therapy Manufacturing Facility. This role is responsible for manufacturing clinical-stage cell therapy products while collaborating closely with Process Development, Clinical Operations, Materials Management, and Quality teams. The ideal candidate is adaptable, detail-oriented, and passionate about delivering high-quality therapies that improve patients' lives.

Key Responsibilities
• Author, execute, and maintain manufacturing batch records, SOPs, work instructions, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Complete documentation accurately to ensure cGMP compliance and support batch record reconciliation.
• Assist with deviation, non-conformance, and OOS investigations.
• Operate, monitor, clean, and maintain automated cell processing, cell expansion, and filling equipment in Grade A & B cleanroom environments.
• Perform manufacturing activities using aseptic techniques in open and closed systems.
• Train team members on aseptic processing, cGMP documentation, equipment operation, and manufacturing procedures.
• Review batch records, SOPs, and logbooks for accuracy and completeness, recommending document improvements.
• Support technology transfer activities and assist with process development studies and process improvements.
• Provide technical guidance on the manufacturing floor, assign work, troubleshoot equipment and processing issues, and communicate product status during shift changes.
• Maintain a safe working environment in accordance with AstraZeneca safety standards.
• Support weekend operations when required.

Education
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in:
• Life Sciences
• Biotechnology
• Biology
• Biochemistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Related scientific or engineering discipline

Experience
• Bachelor's degree with 0–3 years of cGMP manufacturing experience, OR
• Master's degree with 0–2 years of cGMP manufacturing experience.

Required Skills
• Basic understanding of:
• Biologics manufacturing
• Cell culture
• Cell therapy and/or viral vector manufacturing
• Experience with aseptic techniques in manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of automated manufacturing equipment and process analytical technologies.
• Understanding of cGMP regulations and documentation practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and basic data analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.

Preferred Qualifications
• Previous experience in cell therapy, gene therapy, viral vector manufacturing, or process development.
• Experience working in cleanroom environments (Grade A/B).
• Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Continuous improvement mindset with the ability to identify process enhancements.
• Strong troubleshooting and technical problem-solving skills.