Associate Director, LM External Manufacturing & Tech Transfer

Merck; Ames (IA); Hybrid; USD 142,000 - 224,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck is seeking a Large Molecule drug substance leader to drive tech transfer, scale-up, and lifecycle management across a global CMO network. You will manage portfolios for LM drug substances, ensuring on-time delivery, quality, and innovation in a complex supply chain.

The role emphasizes strategic leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and a proactive approach to troubleshooting and process improvement within a hybrid US-focused operation. Travel up to 20% is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Biochemistry, Biochemical Engineering or Bioprocess Engineering.
• Experience in LM drug substances and viral vaccine development or production.

Responsibilities

• Lead external LM drug substance tech transfer, development, scale-up, and lifecycle management in a global CMO network.
• Oversee supplier selection, due diligence, and cross-functional collaboration across regulatory, QA, and supply chain.
• Drive end-to-end project execution for drug substance sourcing and process development.
• Mentor teams, manage risk, and ensure on-time delivery and performance improvement.

Skills

Biologics

GMP

Manufacturing

Process Development

Product Transfers

Project Leadership

Project Management

Technical Transfer

Technology Transfer

Vaccine Manufacturing

Vaccine Production

Vendor Evaluations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry/Biochemical Engineering/Bioprocess Engineering

PhD in Biochemistry/Biochemical Engineering (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Project

Primavera

Job description

Merck is seeking a Large Molecule drug substance leader to drive tech transfer, scale-up, and lifecycle management across a global CMO network. You will manage portfolios for LM drug substances, ensuring on-time delivery, quality, and innovation in a complex supply chain.

The role emphasizes strategic leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and a proactive approach to troubleshooting and process improvement within a hybrid US-focused operation. Travel up to 20% is expected.