Director, Study Data Services

MSD

. Define and execute the long-term programming and reporting strategy for data integration, reporting, automation, and analytics across therapeutic areas .

Posted 10/14/2026full-timeUnited StatesLead💰 $173,200 - $272,600 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expert-level proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, SAS, and SQL, along with a deep understanding of clinical data programming and data engineering. Capable of driving automation, advanced analytics, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards in clinical development.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Expert-Level Proficiency In PythonExpert-Level Proficiency In RExpert-Level Proficiency In SASExpert-Level Proficiency In SQLExperience With Cloud-Based Pipelines

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Clinical Data ProgrammingData EngineeringData Management GovernanceAnalytical ToolsForecasting ToolsInteroperability StandardsData Integration EnvironmentsSDLC/CSV KnowledgeRisk-Based Data PracticesDrug Discovery Processes

Soft Skills

Strategic LeadershipPeople LeadershipMentoringStakeholder ManagementNegotiation Skills

Tools & Technologies

Azure Data FactoryAWS GlueDatabricksEDC PlatformsCloud Computing Platforms

Industry Keywords

FDA RegulationsGxP GuidelinesICH GuidelinesClinical OperationsAudit Readiness

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AWSAzureCloudPythonSDLCSQL

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Define and execute the long-term programming and reporting strategy for data integration, reporting, automation, and analytics across therapeutic areas
Establish and continuously improve programming and reporting standards, frameworks, and operating models
Manage service provider partnerships and ensure adherence to enterprise processes, audit readiness, and quality benchmarks
Oversee programming and reporting delivery across multiple complex studies and projects with accuracy, efficiency, and regulatory compliance
Provide subject matter expertise on programming and reporting strategies, data engineering, and data flow across clinical data systems
Shape the strategy for programming and reporting capabilities developed by DI&A
Collaborate with senior leadership on capacity planning and competency growth for Data Architects
Own development of critical tools, processes, and skills aligned with industry best practices
Champion automation, continuous improvement, and metadata-driven development
Drive AI/ML, advanced analytics, and data virtualization initiatives
Solve operational challenges through engagement, facilitation, mentoring, and expert problem-solving
Evaluate and implement process and technology improvements for scalability, standardization, and quality
Translate complex technical insights into strategic, actionable outcomes
Partner with GDMS and cross-functional teams to align priorities and deliver coordinated outcomes
Oversee regional risk, escalation, and capacity management processes and ensure compliance with local regulations

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's Degree with a minimum of 10 years’ experience in clinical data programming, data engineering, or related data-management/clinical operations functions, plus deep subject matter expertise in clinical development
Advanced Degree (Masters or Doctorate) with a minimum of 8 years’ experience in clinical data programming, data engineering, or related data-management/clinical operations functions, plus deep subject matter expertise in clinical development
Expert-level proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, SAS, and SQL
Expert knowledge of standards and enterprise data management principles
Expert knowledge of interoperability among EDC platforms, data integration environments, clinical operations systems, and cloud computing platforms
Experience designing or managing cloud-based pipelines such as Azure Data Factory, AWS Glue, and Databricks
Demonstrated success managing outsourced programming operations and global delivery partners
Deep understanding of end-to-end data management governance, clinical operations, operational metrics, and quality frameworks
Proven track record implementing risk-based and digital data practices across regions
Advanced use of analytical and forecasting tools
Operating knowledge of SDLC/CSV, data privacy, and inspection-readiness requirements
Deep knowledge of drug discovery processes, FDA regulations, and GxP / ICH guidelines
Strategic leadership, people leadership, mentoring, and development capabilities
Advanced stakeholder management and negotiation skills
No visa sponsorship available
US and Puerto Rico residents only

Benefits

Comp & perks

Annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable
Medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits for employee and family
Retirement benefits, including 401(k)
Paid holidays
Vacation
Compassionate and sick days
Hybrid work arrangement