BristolMyers Squibb

Sr. Manager, Contamination Events and Investigations

BristolMyers Squibb$116K — $141K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. in Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, or related field required.
  • 8+ years of experience in microbiology, sterility assurance, or aseptic manufacturing in GMP environments.
  • Expertise in aseptic processing, environmental monitoring, and sterility test methodologies; experience in biologics or cell therapy preferred.
  • Proven experience leading microbiological investigations and developing CAPA.
  • Strong regulatory knowledge, including FDA and EU GMP standards.

Responsibilities

  • Support microbiological and sterility assurance investigations at BMS manufacturing sites.
  • Serve as the SME for microbiological impact assessments in investigations.
  • Evaluate root cause analyses and assess product, process, and patient impacts.
  • Review and sign off on formal impact assessments and investigation reports.
  • Lead immediate containment and triage efforts for sterility breaches across stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with external manufacturing partners to ensure investigation quality meets BMS standards.
  • Provide technical expertise in aseptic processing principles and contamination control strategies.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefit plans including wellbeing support and retirement benefits.
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) for U.S. exempt employees with no accrual limit for vacation.
  • Paid company holidays and additional time-off benefits, such as volunteer days and medical leave.
  • Annual Global Shutdown between Christmas and New Year's Day.
Full Job Description

Key Responsibilities
Investigation Impact Assessment – Internal Sites

  • Support complex microbiological and sterility assurance investigations at BMS internal manufacturing sites, including environmental monitoring (EM) excursions, sterility test failures, and process-related contamination events

  • Serve as the MQSA SME providing microbiological and aseptic process impact assessments for investigations.

  • Apply advanced microbiology, contamination control, and aseptic processing knowledge to critically evaluate root cause analyses (RCA) and assess product, process, and patient impact.

  • Review and provide formal sign-off on impact assessment sections of investigation reports, CAPA records, and deviation documentation, ensuring conclusions are scientifically sound and aligned with regulatory expectations (FDA, EMA, ICH).

  • Partner with site Investigation Leads to ensure investigation scope, RCA depth, and CAPA effectiveness adequately address microbiological and aseptic process risk.

  • Rapid Response & Triage: Lead immediate containment and triage efforts for sterility breaches, including leaks, mold recoveries, and contamination events across a broad network of stakeholders.

  • Track and trend impact assessment outcomes across sites to identify systemic issues and emerging risk patterns requiring escalation.

  • Support preparation for regulatory agency inspections and audits related to impact assessment findings and sterility assurance.

External Manufacturing (ExM) Support

  • Serve as MQSA technical liaison for ExM partners on sterility and microbiological investigations, providing SME guidance to ensure investigation quality aligns with BMS standards. Partner with site the MS&T Virtual plant teams (VPTs) lead to ensure investigation scope, RCA depth, and CAPA effectiveness adequately address microbiological and aseptic process risk.

  • Critically review impact assessments and investigation reports submitted by ExM partners, providing constructive feedback to drive adequate risk evaluation and CAPA responses.

  • Support quality risk assessments at CMOs, including periodic risk reviews of aseptic processing operations, contamination control programs, and microbiological data trends.

  • Design and implement standardized CMO oversight tools, dashboards, and decision trees for aseptic and microbial control performance

  • Participate in remote and on-site technical reviews with contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) as needed during escalated events or regulatory commitments.

  • Participation in site assessments/vendor selection for CMOs/vendor with Procurement, MS&T, Quality, and other business functions.  Technical SME on Quality Audit team for External manufacturing sites.

Aseptic Process Support

  • Provide technical expertise in aseptic processing principles, including barrier technology (RABS/isolators), cleanroom design, gowning programs, and aseptic technique qualification.

  • Support aseptic process simulations (media fills) – planning, review, and failure investigation – and provide technical input on process validation and revalidation activities.

  • Contribute to contamination control strategies (CCS) development and maintenance per Annex 1 (2022) requirements across internal and ExM sites.

  • Assess and advise on aseptic process change controls, providing risk-based SME review of proposed changes to aseptic processing operations, equipment, and environments.

  • Support implementation of current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) improvements and regulatory guidance interpretation related to aseptic processing and sterility assurance.

  • Interface with the Biologics Drug substance /Drug Product MS&T and/or Cell Therapy Tech Ops group and product specific technical teams to consult on microbial sampling during technology transfers and qualification activities.

    • Technical input, authoring (when applicable), and approval of CMC documents for process validation P.3.5 sections.

    • Support CMC queries and resolution with Global Health Authorities, and support plant inspections.

Technical Leadership & Knowledge Sharing

  • Act as a technical resource and mentor for site-level microbiologists and quality professionals, elevating investigation and aseptic process competency across the network.

  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of global MQSA standards, SOPs, guidance documents, and training materials.

  • Monitor evolving industry trends, regulatory updates, and scientific literature to ensure BMS practices remain current and ahead of compliance risk.

  • Represent MQSA in cross-functional teams, steering committees, and governance forums related to sterility and microbiology

  • Interface with industry consortiums such as BPOG, ISPE, PDA to maintain a view of the current trends and best practices for aseptic processing.


Qualifications & Experience

Education

  • Required: B.S. in Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.

Experience 

  • Minimum 8 years of direct experience in microbiology, sterility assurance, or aseptic manufacturing within a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical environment

  • Deep expertise in aseptic processing operations, environmental monitoring programs, and sterility test methodologies: experience i either biologics and/or cell therapy, or gene therapy.

  • Demonstrated experience leading complex microbiological investigations, RCA methods, and CAPA development.

  • Strong technical writing skills with experience authoring regulatory-grade investigation reports and deviation records.

  • Working knowledge of applicable regulatory frameworks including FDA 21 CFR Parts 210/211/600, EU GMP Annex 1, ICH Q9/Q10, and USP chapters (e.g., <71>, <1116>).

  • Ability to work effectively in a matrix organization, collaborating across functions and geographies without direct authority.

  • Experience supporting or overseeing External Manufacturing partners from a microbiology and sterility assurance perspective.

  • Familiarity with contamination control strategy (CCS) development aligned with EU GMP Annex 1 (2022 revision).

  • Experience with isolator and/or RABS barrier technology in aseptic manufacturing.

  • Participation in regulatory agency inspections (FDA, MHRA, EMA) as a SME or technical reviewer.

Skills & Competencies 

  • Enterprise thinking: Ability to translate site-level data into network-wide strategy and risk management decisions 

  • Technical depth: Recognized internal and external authority in aseptic sciences, contamination control, and environmental monitoring 

  • Executive communication: Skilled at distilling complex technical content for senior leadership, regulatory agencies, and external partners 

  • Change leadership: Ability to influence without direct authority across a complex, matrixed global organization 

  • Data fluency: Proficiency in leveraging performance dashboards, trend analytics, and KPIs to drive decisions 

  • Collaboration: Strong cross-functional partnership skills across Quality, Operations, MS&T, Regulatory, and Supply Chain 

Travel:

  • This position requires up to 25% of travel.

Preferred: 

  • M.S. in Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.


We hire for skills and capabilities, not just credentials – if this role excites you, but doesn’t perfectly match your resume, we encourage you to apply anyway.

Compensation Overview:

Madison - Giralda - NJ - US: $116,440 - $141,100 New Brunswick - NJ - US: $116,440 - $141,100 Princeton - NJ - US: $116,440 - $141,100 Seattle - WA: $128,090 - $155,211

The starting pay range(s) listed above is for full-time employees (FTE). You may also be eligible for additional discretionary incentive cash and stock opportunities. We determine starting pay thoughtfully – carefully considering the nature of the role, required skills, work location, schedule and the knowledge and experience you bring. Final compensation is guided by pay equity principles and applicable employment laws. Compensation programs are reviewed on an ongoing basis and may be adjusted over time to reflect evolving market factors, and individual, team or Company performance.


Benefits:


Subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans then in effect, you may be eligible to participate in our comprehensive benefit plans – including wellbeing support, retirement and financial protection benefits, and insurance offerings (medical, dental, vision, life and disability).


U.S.-based exempt employees are eligible for Flexible Time Off (FTO), which provides paid time off without a set accrual limit, subject to manager approval, along with 11 paid company holidays each year.


Non-exempt employees, RayzeBio employees, and employees located in Puerto Rico receive 160 hours of paid vacation annually for new hires (subject to manager approval), 11 paid company holidays, and 3 optional holidays.


Depending on eligibility, employees may also have access to additional time-off benefits, including paid sick leave, up to two paid volunteer days per year, summer hours flexibility, and leaves of absence for medical, personal, parental, caregiver, bereavement, or military needs. Eligible employees also enjoy an annual Global Shutdown between Christmas Day and New Year's Day.


U.S.-based job seekers can explore full benefit offerings athttps://careers.bms.com/benefits


How We Work

Where you work matters – because collaboration, innovation and patient impact happen in many settings. Our roles are structured across four work models: site-essential, site-by-design, field-based and remote-by-design. The model assigned to this role is based on its core responsibilities. Learn more at


About BristolMyers Squibb

BristolMyers Squibb Careers

Join the vibrant team at BristolMyers Squibb, a leader in global biopharmaceutical innovation, where your career growth is as important as the life-changing solutions we develop. At BristolMyers Squibb, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that encourages professional growth and development. Work You’ll Do Embark on a career with BristolMyers Squibb and be part of a company that’s dedicated to discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. With us, you’ll contribute to a culture that embraces scientific innovation, responsible leadership, and community outreach. Explore job opportunities in various fields from research to marketing, and join a team that values leadership and diversity. Our commitment to career growth means we support your journey with extensive training programs, leadership development opportunities, and a global, diverse network of professionals. Innovative Work At BristolMyers Squibb, innovation is at the core of everything we do. From pioneering research in oncology to breakthroughs in immunology, our professionals have the opportunity to make significant contributions to the field and impact lives globally. Our collaborative environment encourages team members to challenge the status quo and bring forward ideas that pave the way for groundbreaking solutions. Be Part of a Great Team Working at BristolMyers Squibb means being part of a team that supports your aspirations and shares your values. Our culture thrives on teamwork, respect, and diversity, creating a workplace where everyone can achieve their potential. Enjoy the benefits of being part of a company that values work-life balance, provides competitive benefits, and fosters an environment where skills and leadership are developed through hands-on experience and comprehensive mentorship programs. Future-Proof Your Career With a multitude of job opportunities ranging from internships to full-time positions, BristolMyers Squibb is not just hiring; we’re building futures. We equip our employees with the tools needed for success, including advanced training in diverse skill sets, leadership programs, and opportunities for professional networking and growth. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and innovative team players who are ready to make a difference. Explore our career portal for all current job listings and be sure to submit your resume. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and industry insights from BristolMyers Squibb. Our careers blog is a resource for potential and current employees looking to maximize their career potential. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider information tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at BristolMyers Squibb. At BristolMyers Squibb, your career is just the beginning – it’s a pathway to personal and professional fulfillment. Join us and make a global impact.
Learn more about BristolMyers Squibb
Size
32,200 employees
Market Cap
$156.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$9 billion
Founded
1887
5 Year Trend
+19%
Revenue
$42.5 billion
NASDAQ

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