Biotech & Pharma OPT Jobs in Washington
Washington state is one of the strongest markets in the U.S. for biotech and pharma F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs, anchored by major employers like Amgen, Seagen (now part of Pfizer), and the University of Washington's life sciences ecosystem. Seattle and the surrounding Puget Sound corridor concentrate the most opportunities, with roles spanning research, clinical development, and bioprocessing.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Redmond, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials, SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discovery and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The formulation Scientist /Sr. Scientist will be a core contributor to the development and characterization of antibody-based therapeutics. The scientist will design and implement analytical methods for early- to mid-stage development, with a focus on UPLC, CE, and binding assays. The scientist will also contribute to early-stage protein formulation development work. This is a hands-on lab role ideal for a PhD-level scientist who thrives in a dynamic, high throughput setting and is proficient in working cross-functionally.
- Develop and execute robust analytical methods using UPLC (SEC, IEX, RP), CE (CE-SDS, cIEF), and binding assays (ELISA, BLI) to support antibody characterization. Maintain good documentation for all studies.
- Support cell line development, process development, formulation screening, comparability, and stability studies.
- Analyze, interpret, and communicate data to project teams in a timely and scientifically rigorous manner.
- Collaborate with upstream, downstream, and formulation scientists in an integrated CMC environment.
- Author high-quality technical reports, method protocols, and contribute to regulatory documentation.
- Evaluate new analytical technologies and help build internal capabilities as the company scales.
- Contribute to establishing a phase-appropriate analytical control strategy for lead candidates.
- Wear multiple hats, bring solutions, and help shape the analytical infrastructure as the company grows.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline.
- 0–3+ years of relevant industry experience (biotech/pharma) in biologics analytical development and demonstrate strong teamwork.
- Solid understanding of antibody structure, post-translational modifications, and critical quality attributes (CQAs).
- Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities and evolving needs.
- Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Hands-on experience with antibody binding assays (e.g., ELISA, SPR or BLI).
- Strong technical background in HPLC/UPLC and CE techniques for therapeutic proteins.
- Experience in tech transfer, method qualification, or early GMP readiness.
- Familiarity with software platforms like JMP, Empower, SoftMax Pro, or ForteBio Data Analysis.
- Passion for working in a mission-driven environment and building from the ground up.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The expected base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $140,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s qualifications, level of the position, experience, and skills.
While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.
We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.
LOCATION
Redmond, WA
SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.
INTRODUCTION
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Redmond, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials, SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discovery and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The formulation Scientist /Sr. Scientist will be a core contributor to the development and characterization of antibody-based therapeutics. The scientist will design and implement analytical methods for early- to mid-stage development, with a focus on UPLC, CE, and binding assays. The scientist will also contribute to early-stage protein formulation development work. This is a hands-on lab role ideal for a PhD-level scientist who thrives in a dynamic, high throughput setting and is proficient in working cross-functionally.
- Develop and execute robust analytical methods using UPLC (SEC, IEX, RP), CE (CE-SDS, cIEF), and binding assays (ELISA, BLI) to support antibody characterization. Maintain good documentation for all studies.
- Support cell line development, process development, formulation screening, comparability, and stability studies.
- Analyze, interpret, and communicate data to project teams in a timely and scientifically rigorous manner.
- Collaborate with upstream, downstream, and formulation scientists in an integrated CMC environment.
- Author high-quality technical reports, method protocols, and contribute to regulatory documentation.
- Evaluate new analytical technologies and help build internal capabilities as the company scales.
- Contribute to establishing a phase-appropriate analytical control strategy for lead candidates.
- Wear multiple hats, bring solutions, and help shape the analytical infrastructure as the company grows.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline.
- 0–3+ years of relevant industry experience (biotech/pharma) in biologics analytical development and demonstrate strong teamwork.
- Solid understanding of antibody structure, post-translational modifications, and critical quality attributes (CQAs).
- Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities and evolving needs.
- Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Hands-on experience with antibody binding assays (e.g., ELISA, SPR or BLI).
- Strong technical background in HPLC/UPLC and CE techniques for therapeutic proteins.
- Experience in tech transfer, method qualification, or early GMP readiness.
- Familiarity with software platforms like JMP, Empower, SoftMax Pro, or ForteBio Data Analysis.
- Passion for working in a mission-driven environment and building from the ground up.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The expected base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $140,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s qualifications, level of the position, experience, and skills.
While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.
We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success.
LOCATION
Redmond, WA
SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.
OPT Biotech & Pharma Job Roles in Washington
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Search Biotech & Pharma Jobs in WashingtonBiotech & Pharma OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Washington: Frequently Asked Questions
Which biotech & pharma companies sponsor F-1 OPT visas in Washington?
Washington is home to several established biotech and pharma employers with histories of hiring international students on F-1 OPT, including Amgen's Seattle offices, Pfizer (through its Seagen acquisition in Bothell), Adaptive Biotechnologies, and Nuvation Bio. Larger companies with dedicated HR infrastructure tend to have more structured OPT sponsorship processes, though sponsorship is never guaranteed and varies by role and department.
Which cities in Washington have the most biotech & pharma F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Seattle and Bothell account for the largest share of biotech and pharma OPT sponsorship jobs in Washington. Bothell in particular has become a significant life sciences hub, hosting oncology and specialty pharma operations. Redmond and Kirkland also have biotech presence. The University District and South Lake Union neighborhoods in Seattle are especially active, given their proximity to UW research centers and biotech startups.
What types of biotech & pharma roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship?
F-1 OPT authorization is tied to your field of study, not the employer's willingness to sponsor. In biotech and pharma, roles that align with STEM degrees commonly include research associate positions, bioprocess engineer roles, computational biology analyst jobs, clinical data management, and regulatory affairs coordinator positions. STEM OPT extension applicants must ensure the role is directly related to their qualifying STEM degree and that the employer participates in E-Verify.
How do I find biotech & pharma F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Washington?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and filters biotech and pharma jobs in Washington by visa type, including F-1 OPT sponsorship. Rather than manually screening hundreds of postings, you can search roles already tagged for OPT eligibility across Seattle, Bothell, and other Washington hubs. Migrate Mate also surfaces employers with documented sponsorship histories in the life sciences sector, which saves significant time during an active OPT window.
Are there any Washington-specific considerations for F-1 OPT sponsorship in biotech & pharma?
Washington's biotech sector has a notable concentration of oncology and genomics companies, which tend to require highly specialized graduate-level degrees, so your degree alignment matters more here than in generalist markets. Washington has no state income tax, which affects total compensation comparisons. Additionally, many smaller biotech startups in the state do not participate in E-Verify, which is a firm requirement for STEM OPT extension eligibility, so it is worth confirming E-Verify status before applying.