Manager, R&D

Bachem Holding AG; Torrance, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 132,000 - 181,000; Full time

Job summary

Bachem Torrance is seeking a Manager of Research & Development to lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists and technicians focused on peptide process development and technology transfer. The role requires guiding development programs, ensuring quality and regulatory alignment, and driving innovation across manufacturing support and lifecycle activities.

The position emphasizes leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable, compliant

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in a relevant science field.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary project teams and technical initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of peptide chemistry, CDMO operations, and GMP concepts.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Scientists and technical staff; drive accountability and learning.
• Direct process development, technology development, scale-up, troubleshooting, and lifecycle management.
• Prioritize departmental activities, manage resources, and ensure projects meet quality, budget, and timelines.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives and align investments with business goals.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Biotechnology

Master's Degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Biotechnology

PhD in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Biotechnology

Job description

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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.

What you will do

• Leadership & Talent Development: 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.
• Technical & Scientific Leadership: 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.
• Project & Resource Management: 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.
• Operational Excellence: 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or a related field required or
• Master's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or a related field preferred or
• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or a related field preferred
• 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.

Base Annual Salary Range:$131,800 - $181,225

Placement of new hires in this wage range is based on several factors including education, skill sets, experience, and training.

Total Rewards

We offer all Team Members a total rewards package including competitive pay, annual performance bonus, a generous benefit package with comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision coverage, 401(k) plan with employer contribution, and paid vacation, personal and sick days.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Bachem takes responsibility for future generations by a careful handling of resources and avoiding environmental risks. We continually improve our ecological performance and develop and implement new approaches for enhancing employees’ environmental awareness. EcoVadis has awarded Bachem Gold Medal status in their assessment of Bachem.

Bachem Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer

As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the diversity of our team and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where individuals are hired and advanced based on merit, skills, and qualifications. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

At Bachem, you’ll find a diverse, multicultural team. The (a)in the job title stands for all.

Please note: unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies will not be considered.