Director, Preclinical Operations & Animal Care Leadership

Barrington James; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Barrington James seeks a Director of Preclinical Operations to provide strategic and operational leadership for preclinical functions, including animal facilities, husbandry teams and related research activities.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, ensure regulatory compliance and high welfare standards, and drive performance, budgeting and capacity planning to deliver high‑quality preclinical services for clients.

Qualifications

• Significant leadership experience in preclinical operations within CRO/pharma/biotech environments.
• Proven ability to oversee animal facilities and preclinical research functions.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory animal science, welfare and facility management.
• Experience in regulated research environments (USDA, Animal Welfare Act, AAALAC accreditation).
• Proven track record in leading large or multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee preclinical operations, including animal facilities, husbandry teams and research functions.
• Lead, develop and manage multidisciplinary teams across animal care, facility operations and preclinical research.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, animal welfare legislation and quality standards.
• Drive operational efficiency, resource planning and continuous improvement across facilities and research programmes.
• Oversee facility capacity, staffing, budgets and operational planning.
• Support the delivery of high‑quality preclinical studies.
• Collaborate with scientific, veterinary, quality assurance and commercial teams to maintain service standards and support growth.
• Identify opportunities to expand capabilities and strengthen the organisation's preclinical offering.

Skills

Leadership

Animal facilities

Regulatory compliance

Staff development

Budget planning

Job description

Barrington James seeks a Director of Preclinical Operations to provide strategic and operational leadership for preclinical functions, including animal facilities, husbandry teams and related research activities.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, ensure regulatory compliance and high welfare standards, and drive performance, budgeting and capacity planning to deliver high‑quality preclinical services for clients.