Operational Readiness Lead for GMP Startup

Eli Lilly and Company; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 161,000; Full time

Job summary

Lilly is constructing an advanced API manufacturing facility in Houston, TX, and seeks an experienced professional to lead Operational Readiness for the site startup. You will partner with site leaders, develop a milestone-driven schedule, and ensure end-to-end readiness across multiple technical areas to enable a successful GMP startup.

The role requires a science degree, 3+ years in manufacturing, and strong project management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, engineering or related scientific discipline (required).
• At least 3 years of manufacturing experience, preferably in pharma/biotech.
• Project management experience.
• Authorized to work in the United States for a full‑time role; no visa sponsorship provided.

Responsibilities

• Define and mature operational readiness scope across multiple technical areas, from concept to execution.
• Lead cross-functional teams to create an integrated, milestone-driven schedule.
• Track operational readiness deliverables with clear metrics and reporting for accountability.
• Integrate readiness schedules with the project master schedule for real-time critical path visibility.
• Bridge readiness activities with construction and qualification schedules to ensure seamless handoffs.
• Serve as the site Subject Matter Expert for Project Management and governance standards.
• Escalate concerns with timely, accurate status updates to leadership.
• Uphold Lilly's safety, environmental, quality, and operational excellence standards.
• Lead structured problem-solving sessions to drive root-cause analysis and corrective actions.

Skills

Project management

Manufacturing experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, engineering

Job description

Lilly is constructing an advanced API manufacturing facility in Houston, TX, and seeks an experienced professional to lead Operational Readiness for the site startup. You will partner with site leaders, develop a milestone-driven schedule, and ensure end-to-end readiness across multiple technical areas to enable a successful GMP startup.

The role requires a science degree, 3+ years in manufacturing, and strong project management.