R&D Project Manager

Baxter • Deerfield, IL

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The R&D Project Manager provides business and technical leadership for lifecycle management and line extension programs in Baxter’s Advanced Surgery division. The role leads cross-functional project teams through identification, justification, prioritization, initiation, development, and implementation. The Project Manager develops the core team, defines milestones and launch plans, manages project execution and budgets, and champions product lifecycle management processes. The role also drives collaboration, risk management, continuous improvement, and successful launches with a strong focus on quality, compliance, and customer impact. The position follows Baxter’s flexible workplace policy, which requires a minimum number of onsite days per week; the specific number is not stated.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and 8 or more years of related experience, or a master’s degree and 6 or more years of experience.
• At least 5 years of project management experience leading complex, multi-site initiatives.
• Experience within regulated industries.
• Proven ability to lead through influence, drive execution, and deliver results across diverse teams.
• Strong business acumen, financial management, and strategic planning capabilities.
• Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated success managing competing priorities in fast-paced environments.
• Must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States; visa sponsorship or transfer is unavailable.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in medical device, pharmaceutical, life sciences, or advanced manufacturing industries.
• PMP, PMI, IPMA, or equivalent project management certification.

Responsibilities

• Be accountable for core team performance, program schedules and execution, budget commitments, and spending.
• Lead the team in defining program strategies and goals, and ensure project scope is defined and controlled.
• Interact with functions and management levels to maintain effective communication among teams and stakeholders.
• Ensure project risks are identified and communicated, risk plans are developed, and response strategies are proactively managed.
• Anticipate potential conflicts, develop proactive solutions, and manage situations toward win-win outcomes.
• Improve the organization’s ability to implement programs from identification through implementation.
• Lead the core team in identifying and implementing continuous improvements.
• Ensure successful project launches while maintaining a strong focus on quality, compliance, and customer impact.

Benefits

• Medical and dental coverage starting on day one
• Basic life, accident, short-term disability, long-term disability, and business travel accident insurance
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with the ability to purchase company stock at a discount
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employee contributions and company matching
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Educational assistance programs
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off ranging from 20 to 35 days based on length of service
• Family and medical leaves of absence
• Paid parental leave
• Commuting benefits
• Employee Discount Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Childcare benefits
• Potential eligibility for discretionary bonuses

What This Job Offers

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