Process Engineer, Production Technology Toyama-TC Bio-Mfg

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

This role supports production technology for biologics manufacturing at Astellas’s Toyama Technology Center. Requirements typically include a degree in chemical, biochemical, pharmaceutical, or related engineering; experience with biopharmaceutical production, process development, scale-up, technology transfer, equipment qualification, or GMP manufacturing; and the ability to analyze data and solve process problems. Familiarity with aseptic processing, upstream or downstream operations, validation, and quality systems is advantageous. Candidates are expected to collaborate with manufacturing, quality, engineering, and research teams, improve process robustness and productivity, prepare technical documentation, and support investigations and continuous improvement. Professional Japanese and English communication skills may be required, together with a strong understanding of safety, compliance, and pharmaceutical manufacturing standards.

About the employer

Astellas Pharma Inc. is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. It researches, develops, manufactures, and commercializes medicines in areas including oncology, immunology, urology, neuroscience, and genetic regulation. Astellas operates research and manufacturing facilities in Japan and worldwide, with a focus on innovative treatments for diseases where significant unmet medical needs remain. The company combines scientific research, advanced manufacturing, clinical development, and partnerships with biotechnology organizations to bring new therapies to patients. Its Toyama operations are associated with pharmaceutical production and technology capabilities, including biologics-related manufacturing. Employees typically work in multidisciplinary, internationally connected teams and are expected to uphold high standards of quality, patient safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

Working in Japan

Japan offers opportunities in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, engineering, manufacturing, technology, healthcare, logistics, and research, particularly around Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kyoto, and regional industrial centers such as Toyama. The culture values punctuality, teamwork, respect, attention to detail, and reliable communication. Daily life is generally safe and well organized, with excellent public transport, healthcare, seasonal food, and a mix of urban and traditional experiences. Toyama provides a quieter, more affordable lifestyle, attractive scenery, and access to the Japanese Alps, although Japanese is especially important for local administration and daily services. Foreign professionals commonly need an employer-sponsored work visa, such as an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services or a highly skilled professional status. Relocation usually involves securing a Certificate of Eligibility, housing, residence registration, health insurance, and a bank account. Employers may assist with visas and moving arrangements.