Scientific Careers:
The biotechnology industry's greatest growth areas are research and development and manufacturing. As companies search for new products, the need for research staff expands. It typically takes ten to fifteen years to bring a biotech product through clinical trials and into the marketplace. Many biotech companies formed in late 1980s and early 1990s now have products that are nearing clinical and/or commercial manufacturing. Some of the largest companies are expanding their product base, and therefore, their manufacturing capacity. Over the next two years, the demand for qualified manufacturing personnel will continue to increase. New biomanufacturing training programs for entry-level biomanufacturing technicians development are now available offered at several Bay Area educational institutions.
Non-Scientific Careers:
Biotechnology companies also offer non-scientific career opportunities in marketing and sales, general management, and project management. As companies mature, positions in planning, public relations, investor relations, government relations, distribution management, material planning, accounting and finance, and legal counsel become available. Other occupations needed throughout the industry include engineers; mechanics, electricians; heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) technicians; welders; and security guards. Glass washers and media preparation personnel, packagers, and shipping and receiving clerks are also needed to manage the influx and efflux of materials and products.
