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, and cancer. Our innovative therapies have transformed lives, ensuring access to life-changing treatments worldwide. Today, we continue tackling global health challenges in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases through relentless innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to scientific excellence. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Gilead employs thousands of passionate professionals driving our mission forward.

Role Overview

As a Sr Mechanical Engineer II at Gilead Sciences in Foster City, California, you will play a pivotal role in designing, optimizing, and maintaining critical mechanical and utility systems in our state-of-the-art R&D facilities. This full-time position demands expertise in cGMP environments, where you'll serve as the technical owner for systems like HVAC, chilled water, clean rooms, and high-purity water. You'll lead projects from concept to commissioning, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while supporting Gilead's groundbreaking work in HIV therapies, oncology drugs, and treatments for inflammatory diseases. Ideal for seasoned engineers ready to make a tangible impact on biopharmaceutical innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Technical Engineering

Lead and review mechanical systems design, interpreting engineering drawings, P&IDs, and specifications. Develop programs ensuring compliance with CBC, CFC, cGMPs, and GLPs. Collaborate with Maintenance and Operations for equipment audits and safety inspections.

Facility Operations & System Ownership

Act as SME for HVAC, chilled/hot water, clean rooms, fire protection, and utility systems like RO/DI, WFI, compressed air. Troubleshoot deviations, implement CAPAs, and perform capacity planning. Partner on SOPs, audits, and project justifications emphasizing ROI and energy efficiency.

Construction & Project Management

Oversee capital projects through design, construction, and closeout. Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and vendors. Manage field inspections, punch lists, and building automation systems integration.

Commissioning & Validation

Develop Cx protocols, URSs, IQ/OQ/PQ for mechanical systems. Ensure GMP-compliant documentation during startup activities.

Leadership & Collaboration

Mentor junior engineers, manage contractors, and collaborate with Facilities, EH&S, Quality, and Research teams.

Qualifications & Requirements

Basic Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 8+ years of experience in R&D, pharma, or biotech cGMP settings; or Master’s with 6+ years. Proven skills in HVAC (load calculations, duct sizing), hydronics, high-purity water systems, controls, root cause analysis, commissioning, and codes like ASHRAE, NFPA, FDA CFR.

Preferred Qualifications: GMP quality systems experience, Lean/Six Sigma, PE license, proficiency in CMMS, BMS/EMS platforms. Strong vendor management and troubleshooting in critical utilities.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium compensation package for the Sr Mechanical Engineer II role. Enjoy an estimated salary range of $160,000 - $220,000 annually, based on biopharma sector rates in Foster City with a competitive buffer. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match; tuition reimbursement; generous PTO; and wellness initiatives. As a people-centric leader, Gilead fosters an inclusive environment with professional development opportunities.

Career Growth

At Gilead, career advancement is a priority. This role positions you for leadership in facilities engineering, with mentorship programs, cross-functional projects, and exposure to cutting-edge biopharma operations. Advance toward PE licensure, quality management, or executive roles while contributing to therapies revolutionizing HIV care, oncology, and inflammatory disease treatments. Our commitment to employee development ensures you thrive in a dynamic, innovative culture.

Why Join Gilead

Join Gilead Sciences to be part of a team relentless in pursuit of bold ambitions. Work on facilities supporting HIV, oncology, and inflammatory disease innovations that improve millions of lives. In Foster City, enjoy a collaborative culture, great leadership, and direct impact on global health. Every engineer contributes to our mission of accessibility and excellence. With strong benefits, growth paths, and a premium work environment, Gilead is where ambitious professionals create possible together.

Role FAQs

Q: What experience is required? 6-8+ years in cGMP mechanical engineering, focusing on utilities like HVAC and clean rooms.

Q: Is relocation assistance offered? Gilead supports talented candidates; inquire during application.

Q: What systems will I own? Core: HVAC, chilled water, clean rooms. Desired: WFI, compressed air, vacuum.

Q: How does this role support Gilead's mission? Ensures reliable facilities for R&D in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases.

Q: What's the work environment like? Collaborative, innovative cGMP labs in Foster City, CA.