Job Description
Location: Mountain View, CA
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Job-Type: Full-time, on-site.
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About Cuvia
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Cuvia is a venture‑backed biomanufacturing startup building high-quality recombinant proteins for research and pharmaceuticals. We combine first‑principles strain engineering with disciplined process development to move rapidly from bench to scale.
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The Role
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We are seeking an adaptable, detail-oriented Operations Associate to support both our R&D laboratory and manufacturing operations. In this versatile role, you will be a key team player assisting in laboratory-scale experiments and full manufacturing runs.
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Your day-to-day responsibilities will span the entire bioprocess workflow from preparing and running fermentation tanks to downstream processing and facility maintenance. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where you can cross-train, lend a hand wherever needed, and maintain high operational standards, this role is for you.
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Because biological manufacturing does not always fit neatly within standard business hours, this role requires schedule flexibility during active production runs, including periodic early-morning, evening, and weekend coverage. We aim to plan coverage in advance wherever possible and distribute non-standard hours fairly across the operations team. Overtime will be compensated in accordance with applicable law and company policy. As our manufacturing operations grow, the role may evolve toward more formal shift-based coverage.
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The role includes an initial 3-month probationary period to assess operational performance, fit, and technical proficiency.
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What You’ll Do
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- Prepare, clean, assemble, and sterilize benchtop/pilot fermentation vessels and peripheral equipment.
- Perform sterile medium preparation, inoculations, sampling, and routine monitoring during active fermentation runs.
- Take down fermentation systems post-run, execute CIP (Clean-in-Place) or manual sanitization procedures, and reset lab equipment for subsequent runs.
- Assist with large scale buffer preparation, equipment setup, and downstream purification.
- Float between upstream and downstream operational areas based on daily production priorities and schedules.
- Accurately record process parameters, equipment logs, batch records, and inventory data in real time.
- Strictly follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and quality standards across all lab and manufacturing workflows.
- Perform basic maintenance, calibrations, and troubleshooting of laboratory and production hardware.
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Minimum Qualifications
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- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field—OR equivalent hands-on experience in bioprocess, food/beverage fermentation, or biomanufacturing.
- Prior experience in a pilot/manufacturing plant is preferred, but not required.
- Exceptional attention to detail with proven experience maintaining accurate lab notebooks, batch records, or operational logs.
- Adapt quickly to evolving daily priorities, troubleshoot real-time process needs, and pivot smoothly between lab and manufacturing tasks.
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Physical Requirements
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- Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver items up to 50 lbs on a regular basis.
- Ability to stand, bend, reach, and work on your feet for extended periods on the manufacturing floor.
- Comfortable wearing required PPE (lab coat, safety glasses, etc.) for long durations.
- Willingness and ability to work periodic non-traditional hours and weekends based on manufacturing schedules.
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