About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to creating a healthier world for all people. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered breakthroughs in treating HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. Headquartered in Foster City, California, the company relentlessly develops innovative therapies that improve lives and ensure global access to cutting-edge treatments. Gilead's mission thrives on collaboration, determination, and a drive to tackle the world's biggest health challenges. As a key player in the biotech industry, Gilead fosters a culture where every employee contributes to life-changing scientific innovations.

Role Overview

The Director, Lab Operations position at Gilead Sciences in Foster City, California, offers a strategic leadership role within the Technical Development Strategy and Operations team. This full-time position involves leading a dynamic team of lab operations specialists to provide high-quality support for advancing small molecule and biologics pipelines across global sites. You will take operational accountability for lab efficiency, compliance, and innovation, partnering with senior leadership to shape future lab capabilities. Ideal for seasoned professionals passionate about operational excellence in pharma and biotech, this role demands a blend of strategic vision and hands-on leadership.

Key Responsibilities

In this pivotal role, you will drive cross-functional initiatives to optimize lab efficiency, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster innovation in lab operations strategy. Key duties include implementing operational excellence practices such as Lean and 5S methodologies, overseeing all lab operations projects to maintain schedules and budgets, and contributing to equipment relocations, space modifications, and occupancy changes with minimal disruption. You will maintain operational KPIs and dashboards for performance visibility, forecast and manage budgets for consumables and headcount, and oversee capital investments in new instruments and facility upgrades. Safety is paramount: ensure compliance with EHS standards, biosafety, chemical safety, and controlled substance handling while promoting a proactive safety culture. As a people leader, create an inclusive environment, mentor your team, and collaborate with facilities, EHS, Manufacturing Operations, and Global Quality to align with company policies.

Leadership Focus

Embody servant leadership by leading by example, driving problem-solving under pressure, and empowering teams to align with Gilead's bold ambitions in HIV treatments, oncology therapies, and solutions for inflammatory diseases.

Qualifications & Requirements

Basic qualifications include an advanced scientific degree: Ph.D. with 8+ years' experience in pharma/biotech, Master's with 10+ years, or Bachelor's with 12+ years. Preferred candidates bring prior lab operations experience, Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt certification, excellent organizational and communication skills, strong project management abilities, and proven success in cross-functional teams. People leader accountabilities emphasize creating inclusion, developing talent, and empowering teams to realize their potential while connecting to Gilead's organizational objectives.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a competitive salary range of $210,375 - $272,250, determined by experience, qualifications, and location. Beyond compensation, enjoy comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, and wellness programs. Gilead invests in your growth through leadership training, coaching, and development opportunities. Work in a collaborative, inclusive environment where diverse teams drive innovation. Additional perks include flexible work options, employee assistance programs, and access to cutting-edge facilities in Foster City, supporting your contributions to global health advancements.

Career Growth

At Gilead, career progression is a priority. As Director, Lab Operations, you'll partner with senior leadership, gaining exposure to strategic decision-making that shapes lab capabilities for future pipelines in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Gilead's commitment to people leaders ensures you receive feedback, coaching, and resources to evolve the culture. High-performing teams under your guidance will position you for broader impact, with opportunities to lead global initiatives and advance within Technical Development or beyond.

Why Join Gilead

Joining Gilead means becoming part of a team that's transforming lives through scientific innovation. Your expertise in lab operations will directly support Gilead's fight against HIV, viral hepatitis, cancer, and inflammatory diseases, ensuring therapies reach those in need worldwide. In Foster City, California, you'll thrive in a premium environment that values inclusion, development, and empowerment. Gilead's bold ambitions require passionate leaders like you to make a direct impact—together, create possible.

Role FAQs

What is the work location for this role?

This position is based in Foster City, California, United States, with oversight of global lab sites used by Technical Development.

What salary can I expect?

The base salary range is $210,375 - $272,250 USD annually, with total compensation considering experience and location.

Is leadership experience required?

Yes, this is a people leader role focused on mentoring teams, fostering inclusion, and driving performance.

What therapeutic areas does Gilead focus on?

Gilead excels in HIV, oncology, inflammatory diseases, viral hepatitis, and COVID-19 therapies.

How does Gilead support professional development?

Through coaching, feedback, talent development programs, and alignment with organizational goals for career advancement.