Manager, R&D

Bachem AG•Torrance, CA

1d•$131,800 - $181,225•Onsite

About The Position

The Research & Development (R&D) organization at Bachem Torrance is part of a global network of scientific and technical experts dedicated to advancing peptide manufacturing technologies and supporting customers throughout the entire product lifecycle, from early development through commercial manufacturing. The department partners closely with customers to develop robust Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) strategies, enabling successful progression through preclinical development, clinical development, regulatory submission, commercialization, and lifecycle management. R&D is responsible for the development, optimization, scale-up, technology transfer, and continuous improvement of peptide manufacturing processes and related technologies. The organization combines deep expertise in peptide chemistry, process development, analytical sciences, manufacturing science, and engineering to deliver innovative, scalable, and commercially viable solutions that address complex technical challenges and accelerate development timelines. In addition to process and technology development, the department operates laboratory and pilot-scale manufacturing capabilities supporting both non-GMP and cGMP production activities. These capabilities enable rapid process evaluation, process characterization, clinical supply manufacturing, technology transfer, and manufacturing support while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and scientific rigor. As a recognized leader in peptide development and manufacturing, R&D drives innovation through the evaluation, development, and implementation of advanced chemical processes, automation technologies, digital solutions, and next-generation manufacturing platforms. The organization continually explores emerging technologies and novel scientific approaches to strengthen Bachem's capabilities, improve process performance, and expand industry-leading CDMO services. Working collaboratively across global R&D sites and in partnership with Manufacturing, Analytical Development, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Project Management, and Commercial teams, the department plays a critical role in delivering innovative solutions that support customer success, operational excellence, and the long-term strategic growth of Bachem. The Manager R&D provides scientific, operational, and people leadership for a team of Scientists, Chemists and technical staff supporting peptide process development, technology development, manufacturing support, and innovation initiatives. The Manager is responsible for establishing departmental priorities, allocating resources, developing team capabilities, and ensuring successful execution of technical programs aligned with business objectives. The role serves as a critical link between technical execution and organizational strategy while fostering a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or a related field required
At least 3 years of relevant industrial experience in process development, technical development, manufacturing support, or closely related scientific areas required
Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary project teams and technical initiatives required
Experience in peptide chemistry, pharmaceutical development, or CDMO operations required
Advanced knowledge of peptide chemistry, process development, scale-up, technology transfer, manufacturing support, and pharmaceutical development principles.
Thorough understanding of peptide synthesis, purification, isolation, analytical characterization, and associated manufacturing technologies.
Demonstrated ability to lead scientific organizations and manage multiple competing priorities in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment.
Strong leadership, coaching, mentoring, and talent development skills, with a proven ability to build, develop, and retain high-performing teams.
Ability to establish clear goals and expectations while creating a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Strong project management, organizational, and resource planning skills with the ability to effectively balance scientific, operational, and business priorities.
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives, operational improvements, and organizational change management programs.
Strong scientific problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with the ability to assess complex technical challenges and drive effective solutions.
Proven ability to evaluate, implement, and optimize new technologies, automation strategies, scientific methodologies, and business processes.
Strong financial and business acumen with the ability to balance scientific objectives, operational requirements, customer expectations, and organizational goals.
Experience managing departmental resources, budgets, capital investments, and long-range planning activities.
Ability to influence stakeholders, drive alignment, and build productive relationships across functions, sites, and organizational levels.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, including the ability to effectively communicate complex scientific and business topics to technical teams, senior leadership, customers, and external partners.
Demonstrated ability to represent the organization during customer interactions, technical discussions, audits, collaborations, and business development activities.
Working knowledge of GMP regulations, quality systems, risk management principles, regulatory requirements, and pharmaceutical development practices.
Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, compliance, and operational excellence while promoting a strong safety culture.
Demonstrated ability to foster innovation, encourage knowledge sharing, and develop organizational capabilities that support long-term business success.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or a related field preferred
PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or a related field preferred

Responsibilities

Lead, coach, mentor, and develop a team of Scientists, Chemists and technical professionals.
Establish performance expectations and provide regular feedback, coaching, and career development support.
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, inclusion, and continuous learning.
Support talent acquisition, succession planning, and workforce development activities.
Promote cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing across the organization.
Direct process development, technology development, scale-up, troubleshooting, and lifecycle management activities.
Provide scientific guidance and technical oversight for development programs and manufacturing support initiatives.
Drive implementation of new technologies, automation solutions, methodologies, and equipment.
Ensure technical decisions are scientifically sound, commercially viable, and aligned with organizational objectives.
Support customer interactions through scientific leadership and technical expertise.
Prioritize departmental activities and manage personnel, laboratory, equipment, and financial resources.
Ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with quality requirements, budgets, and timelines.
Identify project risks and implement mitigation plans.
Monitor departmental performance metrics and support achievement of business objectives.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance quality, efficiency, productivity, and technical capability.
Develop business cases for investments in equipment, technology, staffing, and infrastructure.
Ensure compliance with applicable quality systems, safety requirements, and company procedures.
Support implementation of organizational and operational changes.