Sr. Manager, Engineering

A brief overview

The Senior Manager, Engineering is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the engineering team that drives process design, development, and optimization across Bachem Americas. This role plays a critical part in advancing operational excellence, supporting capital expenditure (Capex) initiatives, and enabling facility expansion projects.

What you will do

• Engineering Team Leadership: Lead and manage a high-performing engineering team, coordinating all activities related to the design, development, projection, and continuous improvement of process workflows and material flow systems. Foster a collaborative and results-driven environment.
• Technical Strategy & Resource Optimization: Provide strategic planning, direction, and oversight for all technical operations. Ensure the efficient use of personnel, equipment, materials, and facilities to maximize productivity and support business objectives.
• Project Planning & Performance Management: Develop comprehensive engineering schedules and project timelines. Monitor progress against performance estimates, proactively identifying and resolving issues to ensure timely and successful project execution.
• Process Design & Innovation: Direct departmental initiatives to design new manufacturing processes, enhance existing systems, improve production techniques, and establish effective testing procedures. Promote innovation and continuous improvement across all engineering functions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with management, production, and marketing teams to assess engineering feasibility and cost-effectiveness of proposed solutions. Align technical strategies with product demand and business goals.
• Strategic Project Planning: Analyze emerging technology trends, workforce requirements, and market dynamics to inform project planning and investment decisions. Develop forward-looking strategies that support growth and innovation.
• Manufacturing Efficiency & Automation: Champion operational efficiency by integrating new technologies and automation solutions into manufacturing processes. Drive initiatives that reduce waste, improve throughput, and enhance product quality.
• Policy & Procedure Development: Recommend and implement new policies and procedures to optimize existing processes and products. Ensure engineering practices are aligned with industry standards and internal quality systems.
• Budgeting & Financial Management: Prepare and manage the engineering department’s budget. Forecast operating costs, monitor expenditures, and support financial planning efforts to ensure fiscal responsibility and alignment with corporate objectives.
• Compliance & Governance: Ensure all engineering activities adhere to company policies, procedures, and strategic objectives. Maintain a strong focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence throughout all projects and initiatives.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering field with 8 years’ pharmaceutical industry experience or
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field with 10 years’ pharmaceutical industry experience
• 12+ years of engineering and project management experience
• 5 years of experience in a managerial position
• Experience in HVAC systems, clean room design, freeze drying, downstream bioprocessing, mixing, filtration, process automation and quality controls
• Proven success in the design, planning, and project management of manufacturing and pilot plant facility expansions
• Experienced in managing the full project lifecycle-from initial design and planning through implementation and validation
• Strong knowledge of FDA regulations, cGMP guidelines, and 21 CFR Parts 11, 210, 211, and 820
• Responsible for managing the engineering team at the Torrance site and coordinating efforts with the Vista site engineering team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly
• Proactive and solutions-oriented communicator who keeps leadership informed of potential risks and mitigation strategies
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage time effectively
• Advanced computer proficiency, including expertise in planning and design software tools
• Strong team player with the ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional environments
• Highly organized and capable of multitasking in a fast-paced, deadline-driven setting

Base salary range: $139,245 - $191,462

Placement of new hires in these wage ranges is based on several factors including education, skill sets, experience, and training.

Total Rewards

We offer all Team Members a total rewards package including competitive pay, annual performance bonus, a generous benefit package with comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision coverage, 401(k) plan with employer contribution, and paid vacation, personal and sick days.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Bachem takes responsibility for future generations by a careful handling of resources and avoiding environmental risks. We continually improve our ecological performance and develop and implement new approaches for enhancing employees’ environmental awareness. EcoVadis has awarded Bachem Gold Medal status in their assessment of Bachem.

Bachem Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer

As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the diversity of our team and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where individuals are hired and advanced based on merit, skills, and qualifications. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other legally protected status.