Process Development, Director - Upstream (Biologics)

Job Description

Vertex is seeking a highly skilled technical leader to join our Process Development / Engineering team to lead the design, development, optimization, and scale‑up of upstream processes to produce therapeutic biologics. This leadership role is critical in advancing our pipeline of innovative biologics from early development through to commercial readiness. The Vertex Process Development team offers a dynamic, fast‑paced, and highly collaborative environment with a tremendous impact on our programs and our patients. Our team focuses on bringing together the best process design, scale‑up and cutting‑edge manufacturing technologies to enable the successful implementation of Biologics, Cell and Genetic therapeutics.

The successful candidate will lead the development of upstream process development for biologics such as mAbs, ADCs and fusion proteins. The responsibilities include cell line evaluation, media / feed strategy optimization, bioreactor operations, scale‑up, technology transfer of manufacturing processes to CDMOs, and process validation to support our clinical pipeline toward commercialization. This is a highly cross‑functional role that will work closely with drug substance development, analytical development, external manufacturing and supply chain management in CMC teams to drive technical and strategic decision‑making.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead phase‑appropriate strategies for upstream process development, process transfer, scale‑up and process characterization to support commercial readiness. This includes cell line evaluation, media / feed strategy optimization, bioreactor operations, and scale‑up.
• Set‑up and oversee external capabilities for upstream process development of monoclonal antibodies, ADCs and other biologics modalities.
• Develop and manage project timelines, resource allocation, and budget for upstream programs.
• Oversee drug substance technology transfer, process development and GMP manufacturing operations at CDMOs, in close partnership with downstream development, analytical development, formulation, external manufacturing and quality assurance.
• Manage deviations and OOT / OOS investigations at the CDMOs in collaboration with Quality, External Manufacturing and Regulatory team.
• Define and implement control strategies, validation protocols, and process characterization studies in accordance with Quality by Design (QbD) principles.
• Author and review regulatory submissions : IND / IMPD, briefing books and BLA.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in regulatory agency interactions, audits, and inspections.
• Identify and implement innovative technologies (e.g., perfusion systems, single‑use bioreactors, process intensification) to improve process yields, robustness, and efficiency.
• Potential in the future to build and manage a team of scientists and engineers to deliver high‑quality, scalable, and compliant upstream drug substance processes from early development through commercialization.
• Expected travel : 10‑20% (domestic and international)

Required Education

Required Experience and Skills

Pay Range

$195,500 - $293,200

Disclosure Statement

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job‑related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market‑leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week‑long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation

On‑Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status

In this On‑Site designated role, you will work five days per week on‑site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note : The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non‑discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E‑Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and / or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com

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