Associate Director Study Manager (Hybrid)

Merck • San Diego, CA

2d • $142,400 - $224,100 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director Study Manager leads the operational planning, execution, and delivery of one or more global clinical trials. This role is accountable for ensuring high-quality study conduct, driving timelines, managing risks, and coordinating across internal and external stakeholders to meet clinical trial objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences or related field required
• Bachelor's with a minimum of 9 years OR Master's with a minimum of 6 years OR PhD/PharmD with a minimum of 2 years of clinical development experience
• Strong Knowledge of ICH/GCP and clinical research regulatory requirements
• Proven ability to lead global, cross-functional clinical trial teams
• Strong project management, planning, and execution skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities and drive milestone delivery
• Advanced problem-solving and risk management capabilities
• Strong Stakeholder engagement and influencing skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree preferred
• Experience working in global clinical trial environments
• Vendor/CRO oversight experience
• Experience in Immunology or relevant therapeutic area
• Experience leading cross-functional governance and decision-making forums

Responsibilities

• Lead operational planning, feasibility assessment, and execution of assigned clinical trials(s)
• Serve as the Clinical Trial Team (CTT) Lead and provide cross-functional leadership
• Drive study strategy, operational reviews, and risk identification and mitigation planning
• Collaborate with internal teams, country organizations, and external partners (e.g. CROs, vendors) to deliver study objectives
• Oversee study timelines, key deliverables, and execution milestones
• Provide operational input into clinical trial documents (protocols, plans, reports)
• Lead governance interactions, including senior management updates and cross-functional meetings
• Build team capabilities through coaching, mentoring, and development of junior staff
• Contribute to process improvements and may serve as a subject matter expert

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• paid holidays
• vacation
• compassionate and sick days

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director