Director – Process Engineering / Senior Principal Research Scientist

AbbVie•North Chicago, IL
•$160,500 - $305,000•Onsite

About The Position

AbbVie's Research and Development Process Engineering team is seeking a Senior Principal Research Scientist or Director, Process Engineering to transform cutting-edge science into life-changing medicines. This position is posted at two potential levels: Principal Research Scientist I and Associate Director. The role involves driving synthetic molecule candidates from concept to commercial-ready processes. At the Associate Director level, this role includes setting technical strategy and may involve people leadership responsibilities. The position requires expertise in drug product manufacturing platforms such as direct compression, wet & dry granulation, hot melt extrusion, tableting, encapsulation, and film coating, along with a deep understanding of powder material properties. Responsibilities include troubleshooting complex process and material issues and scaling up processes from bench-scale to pilot plant. AbbVie fosters an environment that celebrates bold ideas, encourages experimentation, and provides resources and autonomy for innovation.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Science related field with 18 years of related work experience.
  • Master’s Degree in Science or PharmD with 16 years of related work experience.
  • PhD in Science or related field with 10 years of related work experience.
  • Proven ability to innovate with a history of new or improved product releases.
  • Interacts well with diverse groups within function and maintains strong working relationships with internal and external collaborators.

Responsibilities

  • Lead drug product manufacturing process early phase development for synthetic molecule development candidates within the AbbVie pipeline.
  • Collaborate with development CMC teams to ensure manufacturing processes are aligned with intended commercial manufacturing sites.
  • Advance scientific expertise within the function — mentoring peers and influencing senior leadership with expert insights; at the Associate Director level, this includes providing technical leadership and, where applicable, direct oversight/management of team members.
  • Drive the development of technologies and scientific innovations that expand AbbVie's small molecule formulation capabilities.
  • Partner cross-functionally to build strategies that directly power AbbVie's drug discovery and development programs; at the Associate Director level, help shape department- and function-level strategy in partnership with senior leadership.
  • Champion compliance with AbbVie's safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Benefits

  • paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick)
  • medical/dental/vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • long-term incentive programs
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