Senior Engineer II, mRNA Process Development

Company Overview

Founded over a decade ago, CRISPR Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company that develops gene-based medicines for serious human diseases. It has advanced from a research-stage organization to a leader in the field, with the first CRISPR-based therapy approved for sickle cell disease and transfusion‑dependent beta thalassemia. The company’s pipeline spans hemoglobinopathies, cardiovascular, autoimmune, oncology, regenerative medicine and rare diseases. CRISPR Therapeutics is headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, with U.S. operations in Boston and San Francisco.

Senior Engineer II – Non‑viral delivery technical development. Lead the design, optimization, and scale‑up of manufacturing processes for gene editing mRNA therapeutics. Bridge research innovation and clinical development, leveraging expertise in nucleic acid chemistry, enzymatic reactions and purification.

• Lead the development, optimization, and scale‑up of upstream and downstream unit operations for mRNA drug substance.
• Apply Design of Experiments (DoE) and statistical analysis to evaluate process parameters, improve yields and ensure consistent product quality attributes.
• Drive tech transfer of developed processes to internal clinical manufacturing teams or external CDMOs.
• Author clear, comprehensive technical reports, SOPs, batch records, and tech transfer documentation.
• Provide on‑floor technical support and troubleshooting during scale‑up and GMP manufacturing runs.
• Partner with analytical development to correlate process changes with mRNA quality attributes.
• Mentor, coach and guide research associates and engineers, fostering a collaborative and high‑performing laboratory culture.
• Represent the technical development function in cross‑functional project teams and present data to senior leadership.

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or a related discipline with 2‑4½+ years of industry experience; or
• Non‑Ph.D. and 10‑12 years of relevant experience.
• Core mRNA expertise: hands‑on deep experience in in vitro transcription (IVT) kinetics and plasmid DNA linearization.
• Downstream purification: extensive experience with Tangential Flow Filtration and chromatography modes (Affinity, IEX, RP‑HPLC).
• Equipment proficiency: operating automated chromatography systems such as ÄKTA Avant/Pure and filtration skids.
• Data analysis: proficiency with statistical software (JMP, Minitab) for DoE design and data analysis.
• Strong collaboration, ownership mindset, results orientation and an entrepreneurial spirit.

• Experience with mRNA‑LNP formulation.
• Familiarity with GMP regulations, Quality by Design principles, and preparing regulatory filing documentation.
• Prior experience managing or directly mentoring junior researchers.

Base pay range of $140,000 to $150,000+; bonus, equity and benefits available. Pay determined by job‑related factors.

CRISPR Therapeutics, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity and non‑discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any characteristic protected under applicable law.