Director, Analytical Operations

KITE PHARMA • Santa Monica, CA

217d • $205,615 - $266,090

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced Director of Analytical Operations to lead the Flow Assay Development Team within Analytical Operations. This role will be responsible for the development, optimization, validation, and life cycle management of flow cytometry-based analytical methods to support cell therapy products from early-phase development through commercial launch. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership, technical expertise, team leadership and cross-functional collaboration to ensure the robustness, scalability, and regulatory compliance of flow-based assays.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Immunology, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, or related field with 8+ years of experience or
• Master's degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, or related field with 10+ years of experience or
• Bachelor's degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, or related field with 12+ years of experience

Nice To Haves

• 8+ years of related industry experience
• Extensive expertise in flow cytometry-based assay development with strong understanding of cytometry platforms, instrumentation, and fluorophore-based detection.
• Experience in analytical method validation for regulatory submissions (IND, BLA).
• Solid grasp of cGMP and regulatory guidelines related to analytical methods for biologics/cell therapy.
• Commercial experience in assay development for late-stage clinical trials and commercial manufacturing.
• Strong background in multi-parameter flow cytometry, immunology, and/or translational sciences.
• Proficiency in flow cytometry analysis software such as FlowJo, FCS Express, and/or OMIQ.
• Ability to interact with stakeholders to understand program needs, assay specifics, timelines, and data delivery.
• Experience in working with vendor labs to transfer in-house assays and oversee external data quality.
• Strong communication and scientific writing skills.
• Ability to effectively lead, mentor and develop a scientific team.
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing technical team, fostering mentorship, scientific guidance, and career development.
• Drive the development, optimization, and validation of flow cytometry assays for cell therapy release.
• Ensure assay robustness and reproducibility for commercial manufacturing through experimental design and execution.
• Oversee technical documentation, regulatory submissions, and alignment with commercial product lifecycle.
• Stay at the forefront of advancements in flow cytometry technology, instrumentation, and analytical methodologies.
• Provide strategic direction in assay development, panel design, troubleshooting, and data interpretation.
• Lead high-impact projects that advance organizational objectives and product timelines.
• Represent Analytical Operations in internal and external collaborations, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Cultivate a culture of excellence, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.

Benefits

• Company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
• Discretionary annual bonus.
• Discretionary stock-based long-term incentives.
• Paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees