Project Manager I- Pharmaceutical

Hybrid role based in Morrisville, NC. Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.

About the role

The Project Manager I plays an important role in supporting the successful execution of analytical testing projects while developing the skills and experience necessary for independent project management. This position begins with supporting the project management team through project coordination and administrative responsibilities, including project tracking, documentation management, and coordination of project activities.

As knowledge and proficiency are gained, the Project Manager I progressively assumes responsibility for managing a portfolio of their own client projects and serves as the primary liaison between clients, laboratory teams, and sales staff. In this capacity, the Project Manager I facilitates clear communication, manages project milestones, and helps ensure work is completed on time, within scope, and in compliance with industry standards.

This role supports the Pace Life Sciences Analytical Outsourcing laboratory in Morrisville, NC.

Responsibilities

• Support Project Managers in the planning, coordination, and execution of analytical testing projects, ensuring project requirements and timelines are tracked effectively.
• Assist with client communications by providing project updates, coordinating deliverables, documenting discussions, and escalating issues as needed.
• Coordinate sample management activities for assigned projects, ensuring project-specific and regulatory requirements are accurately documented and communicated.
• Maintain project status, cost information, and client records within the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and other project management tools.
• Review project documentation and testing requests to support the timely initiation of laboratory work and project execution.
• Develop the knowledge and skills necessary to progressively assume responsibility for managing a portfolio of client projects under the guidance of senior project management staff.
• Lead client meetings, including preparing agendas and distributing meeting minutes.
• Host on-site client visits and support sales team activities as needed.
• Liaise with quoting and sales teams to initiate new quotes for scope changes or additional work.
• Provide specialized analysis and interpretation of data results to clients.
• Communicate project risks, issues, and progress to stakeholders with clear recommendations.
• Ensure adherence to industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal quality protocols.
• Collaborate with QA and clients to support timely completion of investigations and CAPAs.
• Maintain accurate and accessible project documentation.
• Coordinate with laboratory, QA, sales, and operational teams to ensure efficient resource allocation and timely project completion.
• Track client account health and escalate concerns to management when necessary.
• Contribute to site forecasting by providing financial updates and projections for ongoing and upcoming work.
• Provide support to project team members, fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performance environment.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and support implementation of best practices.
• Promote a positive, cooperative work environment aligned with Pace values and mission.
• Comply with all Environmental Health and Safety requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, or related scientific field required.
• PMP certification is a plus.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in project management or technical operations, preferably in analytical testing or a laboratory environment.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience will be considered.

Skills

• Strong organizational and time management abilities with experience managing multiple complex projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to customer service excellence.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of analytical testing methodologies, instrumentation, and laboratory operations.
• Ability to communicate complex scientific data.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical industry standards and analytical testing requirements preferred.
• Experience with regulatory compliance and quality systems (ISO, GLP) is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrates tact, discretion, and professionalism in client and team interactions.

Benefits

Full-time roles are eligible for a comprehensive benefits program which includes:

• Competitive salaries
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401K retirement savings plan (100% vested immediately in the employer match)
• Life, disability, and voluntary benefits
• Paid time off for holiday, sick, and vacation days
• HSA and wellness program
• Flexible spending accounts
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee Assistance program
• Parental leave
• Optional legal coverage and ID theft protection