Associate Director, Lab Operations-Pharma (GMP)
About The Position
The Associate Director of Laboratory Operations leads day to day cGMP lab operations, ensuring teams are staffed, trained, and aligned to meet quality and timeline expectations. This role drives performance through clear communication, coaching, and accountability while fostering a collaborative, high trust culture. The position oversees key operational functions including equipment lifecycle management, facilities, supply chain and vendor coordination, sample management, stability program oversight, EH&S compliance, training/onboarding and the administrative support staff. The Associate Director also supports budgeting, cost control, and process optimization to ensure operational continuity, compliance, and scalable growth.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology/Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or related field; MS and/or Lean/Six Sigma preferred.
- 7+ years in a GMP pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical lab environment.
- 5+ years of leadership experience in laboratory operations; CRO/CDMO experience preferred.
- Strong knowledge of equipment management, sample management, stability programs, inventory control, facilities, EH&S requirements, and training systems.
- Experience with budgeting, operational planning, and continuous improvement.
- Ability to make sound operational decisions, ensure compliance, and drive team performance.
Nice To Haves
- MS and/or Lean/Six Sigma preferred.
Responsibilities
- Lead, develop, and coach staff; ensure clear expectations, strong communication, and effective team coordination.
- Oversee equipment lifecycle management, including calibration, preventive maintenance, and asset tracking.
- Maintain site facilities through environmental controls, space management, and building infrastructure.
- Manage supply chain operations: inventory, procurement, vendor relationships, and service coordination.
- Oversee sample management and stability program operations, including sample chain of custody, scheduling, and compliance with protocols.
- Ensure EH&S compliance, hazardous waste management, and routine safety checks.
- Manage onboarding, training, and competency programs for laboratory personnel.
- Manage the administrative staff
- Support financial oversight, including CAPEX/OPEX budgeting and process improvement initiatives.
Benefits
- competitive salaries
- medical
- dental
- vision
- 401K retirement savings plan (100% vested immediately in the employer match)
- life
- disability
- voluntary benefits
- paid time off for holiday, sick and vacation days
- HSA
- wellness program
- flexible spending accounts
- tuition reimbursement
- Employee Assistance program
- parental leave
- optional legal coverage
- ID theft
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
