Program Manager, Technical Operations

About the role

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.

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.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification required; Black Belt certification preferred.
• 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.