Packaging Technical Lead – Associate Director

MSD

. Define and execute overall packaging strategies meeting global network needs .

Posted 10/6/2026full-timeUnited StatesSenior💰 $129,000 - $203,100 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in packaging engineering and pharmaceutical development, with a strong focus on designing and testing packaging systems while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects effectively.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Packaging EngineeringPharmaceutical DevelopmentRisk Assessment ToolsBlow-Fill-Seal TechnologiesProject Management

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Packaging System DesignPackaging Specification DevelopmentTechnical Risk AssessmentPrimary Packaging Component DesignSecondary Packaging Component Design

Soft Skills

Excellent Communication SkillsInterpersonal SkillsAbility to Influence Senior LeadersTeam CollaborationIndependent Work

Tools & Technologies

Regulatory Compliance StandardsICH GuidanceISO StandardsQuality System Regulations

Industry Keywords

Pharmaceutical PackagingSustainability GoalsCross-Functional TeamsStakeholder ManagementCMC Continuum

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Define and execute overall packaging strategies meeting global network needs
Ensure packaging system designs are robust and packaging processes are efficient
Integrate control strategies with upstream and downstream needs
Drive risk understanding and reduction before product launch
Conduct technical risk assessments
Develop packaging specifications
Oversee packaging qualification activities
Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and sustainability goals
Represent, communicate, and balance stakeholder interests
Balance technical probability, cost, resources, and trade-offs across groups
Collaborate with stakeholders across the end-to-end CMC continuum
Develop and commercialize new products on cross-functional teams
Lead packaging technical activities for primary, secondary, and tertiary pharmaceutical packaging systems, including blow-fill-seal technologies

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, or similar field with ten (10) years of relevant pharmaceutical development experience; OR MS/PhD with 8 years
Understanding of the pharmaceutical development process
Ability to design, develop, and test primary and secondary packaging components
Understanding of Risk Assessment tools
Ability to work independently and as part of a larger team
Experience leading cross-functional groups internally and externally
Experience with blow-fill-seal technologies for sterile pharmaceutical packaging systems
Project management experience and ability to provide technical leadership for complex projects while managing multiple projects
Excellent technical written and oral communication skills
Knowledge of current US and global regulations, ICH guidance, ISO standards, and quality system regulations for pharmaceutical packaging
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence senior leaders
Ability to manage complex programs and support multiple activities/projects
Willingness to grow and learn all areas of pharmaceutical new product development
Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
US and Puerto Rico residents only
No visa sponsorship
No relocation
Valid driving license is not required

Benefits

Comp & perks

Annual bonus
Long-term incentive, if applicable
Medical, dental, and vision healthcare
Other insurance benefits for employee and family
Retirement benefits, including 401(k)
Paid holidays
Vacation
Compassionate days
Sick days
25% travel allowance/requirement