Technical Operations Program Manager

DSJ Global; New Jersey; On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

DSJ Global is partnering with a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer to recruit a Technical Operations Program Manager. This role drives strategic operational excellence initiatives, leading cross-functional teams to optimize manufacturing performance across a complex production environment.

You will collaborate with site leadership and global programs, applying data-driven decision making and Lean Six Sigma methodologies to deliver measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline (Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, Life Sciences)
• 5+ years in pharmaceutical manufacturing, technical operations, process engineering, or operational excellence
• Strong knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, packaging operations, testing equipment
• Experience leading cross-functional process improvement or strategic initiatives
• Proficiency in statistical analysis, root cause analysis, risk management, and process optimization

Responsibilities

• Lead site-wide continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational excellence, efficiency, quality, and performance
• Implement and support global technical operations programs and process improvement strategies
• Analyze manufacturing data to identify opportunities for optimization
• Facilitate root cause investigations using Lean principles
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Materials Management, and R&D to set goals and KPIs
• Drive Lean Six Sigma initiatives to improve process robustness and productivity
• Conduct value stream mapping, risk assessments, and FMEA to mitigate risks
• Lead cross-functional teams on strategic projects from planning to completion
• Manage timelines, milestones, budgets, and resources using project management best practices
• Share best practices across sites to promote continuous improvement tools

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Engineering

Tools

PMP (certification)

Job description

A leading pharmaceutical manufacturer is seeking a Technical Operations Program Manager to join its Manufacturing Science & Technology team. This is a high-impact role responsible for leading strategic operational excellence initiatives, driving continuous improvement programs, and partnering with cross-functional teams to enhance manufacturing performance across a complex pharmaceutical production environment. This opportunity offers direct exposure to site leadership, global initiatives, and the ability to influence manufacturing operations through data-driven decision making and Lean Six Sigma methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead site-wide continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational excellence, efficiency, quality, and performance improvement.
• Implement and support global technical operations programs and process improvement strategies.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret manufacturing data to identify opportunities for process optimization and operational improvements.
• Facilitate root cause investigations and problem-solving activities using Lean principles and structured methodologies.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Materials Management, and R&D teams to establish goals and key performance indicators.
• Drive Lean Six Sigma initiatives that improve process robustness, productivity, and overall manufacturing performance.
• Conduct value stream mapping, risk assessments, and FMEA activities to identify and mitigate operational risks.
• Lead cross-functional teams to execute strategic projects from planning through completion.
• Manage project timelines, milestones, budgets, and resource requirements using project management best practices.
• Serve as a liaison across manufacturing sites to promote the sharing of best practices and continuous improvement tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, Life Sciences, or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, technical operations, process engineering, or operational excellence.
• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, packaging operations, and testing equipment.
• Experience leading cross-functional process improvement, operational excellence, or strategic initiatives.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis, root cause analysis, risk management, and process optimization techniques.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies; PMP certification is a plus.
• Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working within a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Opportunity to lead high-visibility strategic initiatives that directly impact manufacturing performance.
• Significant exposure to senior leadership and cross-functional decision makers.
• Influence operational excellence efforts across a complex pharmaceutical manufacturing site.
• Drive meaningful process improvements using Lean Six Sigma and data-driven methodologies.
• Join a growing organization committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Competitive compensation package, benefits, and long-term career advancement opportunities.