Pharma Production Operator

Umanist; Sully Square (VA); On-site; USD 47,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in pharmaceuticals is seeking a Production Operator II/III to manage the manufacturing of solid oral dosage forms. The role involves operating equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, and participating in process improvements. Ideal candidates will have experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing and a strong understanding of cGMP regulations. This position offers a competitive salary range and full-time benefits including healthcare and 401(k).

Benefits

Relocation support

Temporary accommodation

Full-time benefits including healthcare

401(k) with matching

Paid time off (PTO)

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in pharmaceutical OSD manufacturing.
• Advanced proficiency with multiple solid dose processes and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment for solid oral dosage.
• Document all activities in batch records and production documents.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts.

Skills

lean manufacturing

compression

coating

encapsulation

granulation

teamwork

pharmaceutical manufacturing

compliance

documentation

process improvement

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree

Tools

tablet presses

capsule fillers

coaters

granulators

fluid bed dryers

Job description

3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

This range is provided by Umanist. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$47,000.00/yr - $70,000.00/yr

Position Title: Production Operator II / III – Solid Oral Dosage (Compression, Coating, Granulation, Encapsulation)

Location: Chantilly, VA

Work Authorization: U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident

Shifts Available

• 2nd Shift: 4:00 PM – 12:30 AM
• 3rd Shift: 12:00 AM – 8:30 AM (Must be flexible for overtime based on production needs)
  
  

Job Summary

The Production Operator (Level II/III) is responsible for performing a wide range of manufacturing activities involved in the production of solid oral dosage (OSD) pharmaceuticals. Responsibilities include operating, setting up, dismantling, and cleaning production equipment for processes such as compression, encapsulation, granulation, and coating. The operator ensures all tasks are carried out in accordance with cGMP, SOPs, and FDA regulations, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing Operations:

• Operate pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment such as tablet presses, capsule fillers, coaters, granulators, and fluid bed dryers (e.g., Fette 3200i, Korsch XM 12, MG2 Planeta, Glatt).
• Perform equipment set-up, cleaning (master/surface), changeovers, and basic maintenance per SOPs.
• Handle potent compounds and participate in cleaning verification and validation.
• Perform product sampling and in-process checks to ensure batch quality compliance.
  
  

Documentation & Compliance

• Accurately document all activities in batch records, logbooks, and production documents.
• Verify material issuance and labeling, maintain status boards, and report production deviations.
• Adhere strictly to cGMP and safety standards, and participate in investigations and CAPA implementations as needed.
  
  

Process Improvement & Collaboration

• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts to increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance product quality.
• Participate in root cause analysis and cross-functional debriefings.
• Collaborate with QA, Maintenance, and other departments to ensure smooth workflow and product compliance.
  
  

Training & Teamwork

• Complete assigned training in equipment and GMP requirements.
• Actively contribute to a positive team environment through effective communication and support of colleagues.
• Share knowledge and assist in the onboarding and mentoring of less experienced operators.
  
  

Required Qualifications

Level II Operator:

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred.
• 2–5 years of experience in pharmaceutical OSD manufacturing.
• Proficient in at least one of the following areas: Compression, Encapsulation, Coating, Granulation.
  
  

Level III Operator

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in pharmaceutical OSD manufacturing.
• Advanced proficiency with multiple solid dose processes and equipment.
  
  

General Requirements For All Levels

• Experience with the setup, operation, and cleaning of OSD equipment.
• Solid understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).
• Basic English communication skills (reading, writing, and speaking).
• Ability to read and interpret SOPs, production records, and process instructions.
• Forklift certification may be required depending on job assignment.
  
  

Preferred Skills & Knowledge

• Experience with Wurster coating or fluid bed processing.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Working knowledge of FDA regulations, deviation handling, and batch documentation requirements.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods (up to 12-hour shifts).
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work in confined areas.
• Must pass respirator fit test and wear appropriate PPE (gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, gowning).
• Work in a controlled cleanroom environment with exposure to dust and chemicals.
  
  

Additional Information

• Interview Process: 2 rounds (1st virtual interview via MS Teams; 2nd onsite visit).
• Pre-employment Requirements: Drug screening and background check post-offer.
• Benefits:
• Relocation support
• Temporary accommodation
• Full-time benefits including healthcare, 401(k) with matching, and paid time off (PTO)
  

Skills: lean manufacturing,coating,compression,osd,sops,teamwork,contribute,pharmaceutical manufacturing,compliance,documentation,manufacturing,cgmp,encapsulation,granulation,process improvement,six sigma,forklift operation

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Associate

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Manufacturing

• Industries

  Software Development

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