Job Description
Job Title: Associate Director, R&D Quality Assurance (Early-Stage Development) Job Description: Element Staffing is recruiting for an Associate Director of R&D Quality Assurance for a pioneering, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Irvine, CA. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for managing the quality oversight of early-stage contract drug product manufacturers, testing labs, and raw material suppliers. Reporting to the Director of QA, this individual will serve as the primary bridge between R&D and commercial readiness, ensuring that all preclinical through Phase II programs meet rigorous global GxP standards. The ideal candidate is a strategic problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment focused on bringing life-changing therapies to market. Duties/Responsibilities/Qualifications: Vendor & CMO Oversight: Manage supplier quality for contract manufacturers, packagers, and testing labs; lead quality agreement negotiations and vendor calls. QMS Management: Develop, implement, and maintain Quality Management Systems (QMS) specifically tailored to support early development activities (Preclinical through Phase II). Technical Review & Approval: Review and approve investigations, deviations, and laboratory OOS (Out-of-Specification) results; oversee change controls for master manufacturing records and test methods. Disposition & Documentation: Review executed batch records and manage product disposition (CTM) for clinical trials. Review test method validation protocols, API specifications, and label requirements. Cross-Functional Leadership: Serve as the QA representative on development project teams, providing strategic input to Regulatory Affairs, CMC, Supply Chain, and Clinical Development. Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to global GxP regulations (GCP, GLP, GMP) and internal corporate policies. Audit Support: Support the writing and approval of regulatory submissions and SOPs; participate in supplier audits and risk mitigation strategies. Clinical Study Support: Provide QA oversight for blinded clinical studies (two/three-arm) and participate in CMC operational meetings. Additional Information: Years of Experience: 12+ years in the Pharmaceutical Industry with at least 7 years specifically in Quality Assurance. Education: Bachelor’s Degree in a scientific or related field required. Shift/Travel: Hybrid schedule (3 days on-site in Irvine); travel required up to 15%. Requirements: Proven experience with root cause analysis, CAPA effectiveness, and early-phase clinical development. Strong knowledge of the drug development life cycle is essential. Compensation: $155,000 – $205,000 + Bonus, Equity, and Comprehensive Benefits. Location: Irvine, CA