Production Lead

Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
diamond

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Compensation programs
Career growth opportunities
Relocation assistance
inclusive workplace

Job Description

Lonza is a renowned global leader in life sciences with operations spanning over 30 sites across five continents. Established as a pioneering biopharmaceutical and manufacturing powerhouse, Lonza is dedicated to producing innovative medicines that meet the highest quality and safety standards. The company prides itself not only on its scientific excellence but also on its inclusive, ethical, and collaborative culture that empowers employees to own their careers and contribute meaningful ideas that improve global health. Lonza fosters a dynamic working environment characterized by agility and ethical engagement, making it a top choice for professionals eager to make a difference in life sciences. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families, supporting a smooth transition to Bend, Oregon, where this specific full-time, site-based role is located.

This unique opportunity centers around the startup and ongoing operations of a new pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Bend, Oregon. The role is integral to launching operations and ensuring their long-term success by leading a high-performing team through various critical phases, including facility readiness, equipment commissioning, process validation, and transitioning to steady-state manufacturing. Working on-site facilitates real-time collaboration and technical precision vital for delivering safe and compliant medicines. The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in establishing operational excellence through hands-on leadership, close partnerships with Engineering, Quality, and technical teams, and a relentless commitment to safety and continuous improvement.

During startup, you will be directly involved in supporting equipment commissioning, qualifications, and validation activities. Developing and refining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), batch records, and operational guidelines will also be key responsibilities to ensure seamless manufacturing processes. You will lead efforts to identify and resolve issues using data-driven approaches and foster a culture of accountability and safety within the team. As operations transition from startup to steady state, your leadership will ensure sustainable, efficient, and compliant production. This role not only emphasizes technical expertise and operational excellence but also provides opportunities for career growth within a globally connected organization that recognizes high performance and supports its employees with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

Joining Lonza offers more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to be part of an agile career path within a company that values passion, integrity, and collaboration. The company’s core values permeate every aspect of the work environment and business operations, encouraging every employee to contribute ideas that can change lives around the world. Lonza actively promotes an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity and offers equal employment opportunities regardless of race, religion, gender identity, age, or other legally protected characteristics. As a leader in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, Lonza remains committed to excellence, innovation, and shaping the future of life sciences. If you are passionate about driving impactful projects and advancing your career in a forward-thinking organization, this role represents an outstanding chance to grow with a global leader in medicine production.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Pharmaceutical or regulated manufacturing experience required
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively across teams
  • Problem-solving and decision-making skills
  • Leadership experience or potential
  • Commitment to quality and safety standards

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is preferred
  • Experience in pharmaceutical or regulated manufacturing environments
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Ability to work across teams and influence outcomes
  • Problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions
  • Leadership potential with experience guiding or supporting teams
  • Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement

Job Duties

  • Support equipment commissioning, qualification, and validation activities during startup
  • Partner with Engineering, Quality, and technical teams to prepare systems for manufacturing
  • Develop and improve SOPs, batch records, and operational procedures
  • Identify and resolve issues during startup using data and team input
  • Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing production team
  • Transition operations from startup to steady-state manufacturing
  • Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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