GMP Lab Operations Lead — Associate Director

Pace® Analytical Services; Oakdale (MN); On-site; USD 115,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K retirement plan

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Pace® Analytical Services in Oakdale, MN seeks an Associate Director of Laboratory Operations (GMP) to lead day-to-day cGMP lab operations, ensure staffing, training, and alignment with quality and timelines.

You will oversee equipment lifecycle management, facilities, supply chain, sample management, stability programs, EH&S, onboarding, and budgeting, driving continuous improvement and scalable growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology/Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years in a GMP pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical lab environment.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in laboratory operations; CRO/CDMO experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and coach staff; ensure clear expectations, strong communication, and effective team coordination.
• Oversee equipment lifecycle management, including calibration, preventive maintenance, and asset tracking.
• Maintain site facilities through environmental controls, space management, and building infrastructure.
• Manage supply chain operations: inventory, procurement, vendor relationships, and service coordination.
• Oversee sample management and stability program operations, including sample chain of custody, scheduling, and compliance with protocols.
• Ensure EH&S compliance, hazardous waste management, and routine safety checks.
• Manage onboarding, training, and competency programs for laboratory personnel.
• Manage the administrative staff
• Support financial oversight, including CAPEX/OPEX budgeting and process improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

GMP knowledge

Operations management

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Biology/Microbiology/Pharmaceutical Sciences/Chemical Engineering

MS and/or Lean/Six Sigma preferred

Job description

Pace® Analytical Services in Oakdale, MN seeks an Associate Director of Laboratory Operations (GMP) to lead day-to-day cGMP lab operations, ensure staffing, training, and alignment with quality and timelines.

You will oversee equipment lifecycle management, facilities, supply chain, sample management, stability programs, EH&S, onboarding, and budgeting, driving continuous improvement and scalable growth.