Quality

Quality

EPM Scientific: Specialist Talent Partner in Quality Control Recruitment for Life Sciences

Even as the life sciences industry transforms at an unprecedented pace, quality issues drain up to 30% of pharmaceutical manufacturing costs. More than 300 drugs and medical devices were recalled in the last two years, highlighting the vital importance of strong Quality teams. A critical function in the manufacturing process, Quality ensures final products are consistent, safe, effective, and predictable. Entrust your Quality talent needs to EPM Scientific, the preferred talent partner of industry-leading companies and mover-and-shaker startups. We will source and deliver the best people for the job when you need them.

How we can help

Since 2012, we have sourced exceptional Quality professionals for clients around the world. Our expertise and efficiency in filling individual and team roles is bolstered by ongoing development and training, as well as investing in top-class technologies. In addition to finding sought-after talent for our clients, we help talented individuals find career-advancing opportunities. Whether you’re looking to fill a Quality role, or looking for your next career opportunity, EPM Scientific can help you.

Quality talent solutions

EPM Scientific takes the time-consuming hassle out of finding permanent, contract, and multi-hire Quality talent solutions aligned with your company’s requirements. Thanks to our global talent hubs, we can find the right people for Quality roles and place them quickly.

Our Quality talent solutions extend to an extensive network of interim managers and contractors who are ideal for long-term and time-critical functions and roles. We also offer retained and contingent services tailored to your company’s unique requirements.

We specialize in finding the best Quality talent, offer superior account management, and support our clients with value adding services such as interviewing tips, remuneration guidance, and bespoke analysis.

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Benefits of working with us

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Experience

We have over a decade’s worth of experience as a leading talent partner in Life Sciences & Pharma.

Network

A vast, global network of the best, in-demand professionals, working with the world’s largest Life Sciences institutions, to take drugs, devices and therapeutic applications through from conception to completion.

Knowledge

Our award-winning talent specialists offer bespoke, tailored guidance on the latest hiring trends and industry news to help you achieve your goals.

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Looking to hire?

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Quality Jobs

EPM Scientific continues to fill a wide range of Quality roles at life sciences companies in the US and around the world, including Quality Control Manager, Director of Quality, Head of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs, and VP of Quality.

Director, Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA)

The Director of Food Safety and Quality Assurance will lead the development, implementation, and management of food safety and quality assurance (FSQA) programs across all company operations. This executive role is responsible for ensuring that all food products meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. The Director will work closely with various departments, including operations, supply chain, and R&D, to promote a culture of continuous improvement in food safety and quality. Key Responsibilities: Develop and execute the company's FSQA strategy, aligning with organizational goals and regulatory requirements. Develop and maintain comprehensive FSQA documentation, including SOPs, HACCP plans, and food safety management systems. Lead a team of food safety and quality professionals, providing direction, training, and mentorship. Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for quality-related issues, ensuring continuous improvement. Conduct risk assessments and implement preventive controls to mitigate food safety risks. Design and deliver FSQA training programs for employees across all levels of the organization. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field; advanced degree preferred. Minimum of 10 years of experience in food safety and quality assurance, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and quality management systems (e.g., HACCP, FSMA, GFSI). Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to drive cross-functional collaboration. Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities. Certification in food safety (e.g., HACCP, PCQI). Experience in the snacks and baked foods manufacturing industry.

US$150000 - US$185000 per annum
Miami
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Quality Manager

What You'll Work On Management and development of Quality Systems Engineers. Administer and lead Corrective/Preventive Action program for all MCS sites (five different locations). Oversees the CAPA process from initiation to effectiveness review and ensure the CAPA process is compliant and effective and driving investigations to root cause. Identify opportunities to proactively assure compliance to all applicable internal, domestic and international quality regulations, US 21 CFR 820 (QSR), ISO 13485, etc. Provide influential peer leadership with international partner site to drive proactive quality improvements. Identify Quality Initiatives and lead cross-functional teams to complete them. Provide expert level guidance and direction of the CAPA systems Body-of-Knowledge. Assess resource needs to assure that the accurate level of quality support is provided when needed with the competencies needed. Provides subject matter expertise, leadership and training on investigational & Root Cause Analysis techniques, as appropriate, to other CAPA team members and to technical subject matter experts involved in the resolution of quality issues. Be an effective member of the cross-departmental Functional Management Team to foster continuous quality compliance, cost, and proactive improvements. Maintain effective Quality Metrics and define and execute activities to resolve decreases in performance. Maintains the effectiveness of the CAPA system records to ensure audit-readiness for internal and external quality system audits within the area. Be a champion of Quality, Six Sigma, Lean and disciplined problem solving throughout the organ. Represent Quality Systems as required in support of cross-functional divisional projects. Identify Quality Initiatives and lead cross-functional teams to complete them. Ensure all CAPA-related documentation is managed in a complete, clear, concise, and controlled manner. Produce and analyses trend metrics and reports and establishes further actions, as may be required. Approves CAPA investigations and resolution plans, verifies completion of CAPA actions. Hires and retains a diverse, highly qualified staff and provides ongoing performance feedback. Sets goals which align to department plans and manages the execution of goals through coaching and mentoring. Maintains a safe and professional work environment. Complies with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies, operating procedures, processes, and task assignments. Maintains positive and cooperative communications and collaboration with all levels of employees, customers, contractors, and vendors.

US$1000 - US$175000 per year
San Diego
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Cleaning Validation Expert

We are looking for a dedicated Cleaning Validation Expert. If you have experience in cleaning validation within a GMP-regulated environment and are passionate about process optimization, this role offers an exciting opportunity to make a difference in pharmaceutical production. Key Responsibilities: - Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including laboratories and production teams, to ensure smooth cleaning validation processes. - Conduct sampling, sample preparation, and documentation for cleaning validation. - Create and maintain validation plans, reports, protocols, and SOPs. - Ensure compliance with GMP requirements and customer production needs. - Perform risk assessments, handle ADC monitoring, and conduct small-scale cleaning studies. - Support product launches, tech transfers, and troubleshooting of cleaning-related processes. - Contribute to process improvements and ensure effective communication across teams. Your Profile: - University degree in a relevant field or comparable training with professional experience. - Proven experience in cleaning validation within pharmaceutical production. - Strong understanding of GMP environments and sample handling. - Interest in analytics and solid communication skills. - Fluent in English and German. - Familiarity with eVAL is a plus.

Negotiable
Switzerland
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Quality Manager

Title: Quality Manager Location: Albany, OH (Can Provide Relocation) A leading pharmaceutical company just launched a brand new 503b facility and is rapidly expanding their site. They are looking for a Quality Manager to lead QA and QC activities for this new site. Responsibilities: Review and approve Quality documentation (batch records, SOPs, deviations, change controls, OOS investigations, etc.) Create annual product reviews, review/approve label changes Provide assistance and leadership in regulatory inspections Oversee incoming materials, sample reserve, and sterility assurance programs Support vendor management and assist with vendor qualification activities Qualifications: Bachelor's degree with 7+ years of relevant experience Ability to lead QA/QC activities and work in a fast-paced startup environment Must have experience with batch disposition and sterility If this sounds of interest, please don't hesitate to apply!

Negotiable
New Albany
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Validation Engineer

Title: Validation Engineer Location: Albany, OH (Can Provide Relocation) A leading pharmaceutical company just launched a brand new 503b facility and is rapidly expanding their site. They are looking for a Validation Engineer to lead site validation activities across equipment, cleaning, process, and CSV. Responsibilities: Develop site validation plan Validation protocol executions - IQ, OQ, PQ, PV, and CSV Manage and direct studies for cleaning V&V activities Provide on-site direction and consultation to cross-functional teams on best validation practices Support regulatory submission and inspections as needed Qualifications: Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience Ability to lead validation activities and work in a fast-paced startup environment Experience developing master validating plans and protocols If this sounds of interest, please don't hesitate to apply!

Negotiable
New Albany
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Certification Manager - AO/CAB Department

The Certification Manager will lead a team of Certification Project Managers and Lead Auditors, ensuring compliance with company policies, processes, and regulatory standards. This role is responsible for driving departmental growth, expanding the client base, and ensuring the effective delivery of the certification process. Acting as a key liaison between internal and external stakeholders, the Certification Manager plays a critical role in managing the department's resources and ensuring service excellence. Leadership & Team Development: Lead and manage a team of Certification Project Managers and Auditors, ensuring alignment with department goals, staff development, and resource management. Service Delivery: Ensure the timely and effective delivery of certification services, maintaining high standards and meeting client needs. Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a liaison between internal and external customers, fostering positive relationships and ensuring clear, responsive communication. Quality & Regulatory Compliance: Uphold and ensure adherence to company quality standards and regulatory requirements, maintaining compliance with industry regulations. Operational Excellence: Oversee department performance, manage budgets, track KPIs, and drive continuous improvements to enhance productivity and service offerings.

Negotiable
United States of America
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Senior Supplier Quality Engineer

Qualifications 8+ years of experience in supplier quality engineering In-depth knowledge of industry standards and regulations (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001, NASA quality standards) Technical and experiential knowledge of manufacturing processes and standards necessary to manufacturing and validate space quality hardware In-depth knowledge of configuration management, manufacturing methods, and process quality controls Nice to haves but not required: Familiarity with high-volume inspection methods and data-driven acceptance methods Strong knowledge of enterprise applications (i.e., PLM, ERP, MES) and proficient in data analysis Self-starter that has demonstrated the ability to define and own a process from scratch and roll out that process through adept communication to a diverse team Experience with New Product Development and PPAP implementation Benefits Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors Compensation is only one part of our total rewards package Relativity Space offers competitive salary and equity, a generous PTO and sick leave policy, parental leave, an annual learning and development stipend, and more Responsibilities: We work closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, test and launch counterparts to ensure the quality of our products We help lay the foundation for all processes within the product lifecycle - design, buy, build, test, and launch This is a unique opportunity to join a growing Quality organization and help lead the front on producing the industry's highest quality 3D-printed parts and launch vehicle Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to improve supplier quality, sustaining a culture of problem solving and continuous improvement Collaborate with the quality team to achieve goals and objectives aligned with company priorities Conduct supplier evaluations, issues corrective actions, and support development of key suppliers Confirm supplier compliance with industry standards, such as AS9100, ISO 9001, and NASA quality requirements Analyze defect data and metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement among suppliers Collaborate with cross functional and external stakeholders to lead problem solving of supplier quality issues and validate corrective actions Lead containment activities for supplier related quality spills and improve efficiency of screening defects

US$120000 - US$130000 per year
San Diego
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Lab Technician / Lab Scientist

We are seeking a highly Lab Technician / Lab Scientist to join our Analytical Development Team in beautiful Visp, Switzerland! Key Responsibilities: - Provide analytical support for chemical process development and optimisation - Prepare, execute, and document analyses, method development, and validations under ISO9001 standards - Collaborate with internal customers on analytical orders and results - Maintain and service analytical equipment and support software systems - Prepare test instructions, validation reports, and instrument SOPs Qualifications: - Completed training as a chemical laboratory technician or a BSc in chemistry - Very good German and good English skills - Strong expertise in instrumental analysis (chromatography, titration, UV/Vis, IR spectroscopy) - Proficiency in Empower software - A passion for analytical challenges and mentoring others - Excellent communication and teamwork skills For further information about this position, please apply with your CV! ***Please note, only those with the right to work in Switzerland can apply!**

Negotiable
Visp
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Senior Quality Engineer

Senior Quality Engineer San Francisco Bay Area Salary: $88,500-$120,000 + 15% bonus + equity Using cutting-edge diagnostics, tailored treatments, and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, this radiopharmaceutical company is an inventive, flexible, and expanding business that gives doctors the tools they need to identify, treat, and monitor disease. This company has secured over $600 Million in funding over the last 3 years. The CEO and Co-Founder worked previously at another Pharmaceutical Company where they were able to get 3 products commercialized. If interested in learning more, please don't hesitate to apply. The Senior Quality Engineer will be responsible for: Function as primary QA Representative in CMO change management, investigation, and CAPA review and approval Provide Quality oversight of routine Manufacturing Processes Act as technical resource with the FDA and other government agencies during site review Remain current and apply knowledge of FDA CFR 210/211 and other regulatory standards and guidance in the pharmaceutical industry The Senior Quality Engineer should have the following qualifications: BA/BS in a scientific discipline with minimum 5 years of Progressive experience in the pharmaceutical or radiopharmaceutical industry or related GMP environment Previous experience in Quality, Compliance, and/or Manufacturing of radiopharmaceutical products in preferred Ability to travel up to 20% Benefits: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (100% covered by the company) 401k Plans with a 6% match dollar for dollar Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave

US$85500 - US$120000 per year
San Francisco
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Quality Engineer - 2nd Shift

Title: Quality Engineer Salary: $80,000-$90,000 Company Summary: We are seeking a skilled and motivated Quality Engineer to join our team in Michigan. In this role, you will provide technical expertise and ensure the implementation of quality systems for commercialized products within the nutrition sector. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex problems and driving meaningful innovations in a collaborative environment The Quality Engineer will be responsible for: Develop, modify, and apply quality standards and protocols to ensure that production materials meet required specifications Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to implement and maintain quality standards across production processes Design and implement methods for inspecting, testing, and evaluating products and equipment to ensure precision and accuracy Perform statistical analysis to identify areas for improvement and recommend corrective measures for non-compliant materials or products Ensure all corrective actions meet reliability standards and comply with documentation requirements The Quality Engineer should have the following qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field Certification in ASQ CQE/CQA or Lean/Six Sigma Strong verbal and written communication skills Familiarity with QSR 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, EU MDR, CMDR, and JPAL regulations Experience with medical devices and process validation is a plus Knowledge of statistical methods, risk management, and SAP QM software is beneficial Benefits: All-inclusive benefits that begin on the first day, including wellness, dental, and vision care. Monetary advantages including a substantial 401(k) with corporate match, retirement plans, incentives, and competitive pay Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance Supplemental Life Insurance If you are interested in the Quality Engineer role, then please don't wait to apply. If you have any questions feel free to reach me at Adam.Tizabi@epmscientific.com.

Up to US$90000 per year
Sturgis
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Quality Engineer

Job Title: Quality Engineer Location: Newton, MA About Us: Are you passionate about ensuring the highest quality standards in medical devices that make a real difference in patient care? We are a leading innovator in wound care trauma pads, we are dedicated to delivering advanced solutions that enhance patient outcomes and support healthcare professionals in their critical work. We are currently seeking a meticulous and driven Quality Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will play a crucial part in maintaining the exceptional quality of our Class 2 medical devices, overseeing the entire lifecycle from product development through to supply chain and manufacturing. If you are an experienced quality engineer with a strong background in medical devices, and thrive in a collaborative and dynamic environment, we invite you to be part of our mission to advance wound care technology and improve patient lives. Position Overview: We are looking for a skilled and proactive Quality Engineer to join our team in Newton, MA. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in quality engineering with a solid background in supply chain management, manufacturing processes, vendor/supplier relations, and product development. This role is pivotal in ensuring our medical devices meet stringent quality standards and regulatory requirements. Key Responsibilities: Supplier and Vendor Management: Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors to ensure the quality of incoming materials and components. Conduct supplier audits and assessments to evaluate performance and compliance with quality standards. Work with suppliers to address quality issues, resolve non-conformances, and implement corrective actions. Quality Assurance and Compliance: Implement and manage quality control processes to ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards, including FDA and ISO 13485. Perform regular inspections and audits of manufacturing processes to ensure adherence to quality specifications. Develop, review, and approve quality documentation, including inspection reports, non-conformance reports, and corrective and preventive action (CAPA) plans. Product Development Support: Collaborate with the product development team to provide quality input during the design and development phases. Ensure design controls are implemented and followed, including risk management activities such as FMEA and Design Verification and Validation (V&V). Review and approve design changes and product specifications to maintain product quality and compliance. Continuous Improvement: Drive initiatives for continuous improvement in quality management systems and manufacturing processes. Analyze quality data and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with manufacturing teams to resolve quality issues and enhance production processes. Partner with engineering, regulatory, and other departments to ensure quality objectives are met and projects are completed successfully. Qualifications: Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Assurance, or a related field. Experience: At least 2 years of experience as a Quality Engineer, preferably in the medical device industry. Proven experience with supply chain management, manufacturing processes, vendor/supplier relations, and product development. Skills: Strong understanding of quality management systems and regulatory requirements. Proficiency in quality tools and methodologies, including statistical analysis, root cause analysis, and problem-solving techniques. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. Certifications: ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or similar certification is a plus but not required. What We Offer: Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package Opportunities for professional growth and development A dynamic and supportive work environment The chance to contribute to meaningful advancements in medical technology

Negotiable
Newton
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Sr. Manager, Quality Validation

Title: Sr. Manager, Validation Location: St. Louis, MO (Can provide relocation) A leading pharmaceutical company is seeking a validation expert to lead their site's validation program. The Senior Manager will be responsible for leading all aspects of validation (equipment, process, utilities, facilities, CSV) and support process improvements. Responsibilities: Develop proper validation training for relevant staff Ensure equipment and systems meet relevant guidelines and requirements Participate in compliance audits and respond to audit observations Support other groups' validation efforts and provide relevant validation resources Review, edit, and approve validation policies and sure proper implementation Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in relevant field with 15 years of validation experience in a pharmaceutical environment Previous hands-on experience with every aspect of validation, expertise with process validation preferred Experience leading and managing a validation team Must be authorized to work in the US without visa sponsorship If this sounds interesting, please don't hesitate to apply!

Negotiable
Missouri River Township
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Quality News & Insights

Life Sciences Salary Guides of 2023 Image
biometrics

Life Sciences Salary Guides of 2023

Are you aiming to advance your career within the life sciences sector? Are you interested in discovering your competitors‘ offerings for professionals in your field across the APAC region? We are excited to present our new series of Salary Guides for the life sciences industry. These comprehensive reports will furnish you with invaluable insights into the present salary trends in Singapore, China, Australia, South Korea, and Japan.Compiled from the responses of almost 900 life sciences professionals in the APAC region, this is an opportunity you shouldn't overlook. Seize the chance to gain a competitive advantage in the life sciences field, enabling you to make well-informed choices about your career trajectory, compensation, and hiring approaches.

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The Life Sciences Skills Gap: How to Hire Image
management advice

The Life Sciences Skills Gap: How to Hire

​The life sciences industry is rapidly growing, but it is experiencing skills gaps that need to be addressed to allow it to reach its full potential. According to a 2022 life sciences and pharma talent trends report, 33% of C-suite and human capital leaders in the life sciences and pharmaceuticals sector agree that talent scarcity is a major pain point. This problem is widespread, with the UK also suffering a skills shortage that threatens to stall the industry’s trajectory.Skills gaps in digital and computational skills, and industrial, economic, and clinical research are particularly large. However, if phenotypic, genomic, and patient data integration practices can be optimized across the industry, this will support both research and treatment advances in the future.This article shares effective hiring strategies that can help life sciences organizations address skill gaps within their teams and wider business.Understanding the skills gaps in the life sciences industryStatistics from the talent trends report highlight the key skills gaps in the life sciences industry and how they impact key research and development processes. Demand for life sciences products is forecast to grow more rapidly than the global GDP over the coming years, and 45% of the aforementioned talent leaders note that they are looking to hire primarily to avoid talent scarcity from hindering their organizations’ progress. Moreover, the report found that 67% of pharmaceutical and life sciences companies believe that reskilling their current employees is an efficient way to address and mitigate skills gaps. It currently takes 105 days on average to fill a non-executive life sciences position in the US, leading to financial losses of $500 per open role per day, so intentional talent strategies are crucial to setting life sciences businesses on the path to success.Supporting mobility between sectorsSupporting mobility between sectors plays a vital role in closing the skills gaps within the life sciences industry. Enabling professionals to transition across sectors, ranging from Regulatory and Legal Services to Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Engineering, allows life sciences companies to tap into a vast pool of talent. This is also an effective method of sharing intersectional knowledge and developing key skills.Selecting candidates with a diverse range of backgrounds for open roles may also bring more unique perspectives into your organization, thereby driving innovation and helping to meet growing demand. Focus on transferable skillsFocusing on transferable skills is a powerful approach to bridging the skills gap in the life sciences industry. Rather than solely emphasizing sector-specific experience, prioritizing transferable skills enables professionals to adapt and thrive in new roles within the field. The life sciences industry’s talent offers a myriad of transferable skills that can be used to power future growth and innovation. These include analytical skills, leadership and teamwork skills, problem solving, written and oral communication skills, management skills, and scientific peer communication. Additional soft skills to focus on in your talent acquisition strategy include critical thinking, problem solving, and attention to detail.Consider cultural fitSeek out candidates from other industries who align with your organization’s culture, values, and core mission. This alignment promotes employee engagement, retention, and overall job satisfaction, whilst creating a supportive working environment that benefits from a wide range of experiences and perspectives.These candidates should also possess the aforementioned transferable skills, which will help to ensure that they can perform optimally in their new roles without being hindered by common skills gaps.Offer more flexibilityWhile not a priority for all candidates, flexible working arrangements such as remote or hybrid work arrangements are valuable to skilled candidates and may help to give your organization an advantage in the ongoing competition for life sciences talent.Hire top talent with EPM ScientificEPM Scientific is a leading specialist life sciences talent partner, providing you with a wealth of expertise to help you locate the best talent for your life sciences roles globally. Submit a vacancy or request a call back from our team to find the right people to drive your organization forwards.

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How to Ensure Employee Retention in Life Sciences Image
safety-pharmacovigilance

How to Ensure Employee Retention in Life Sciences

​The Pharmaceutical market has expanded considerably in the past two decades, with Pharma revenues totalling $1.42tn in 2021. This has been accompanied by a growing demand for experienced, highly qualified Life Sciences professionals: with more drugs than ever now available, companies require a strong workforce to bring their products to market. The industry has had to deal with an ever-small talent pool as a result, which has been exacerbated by one of the highest employee churn rates, with the Life Sciences and Medical Devices industry alone seeing a 20.6% turnover rate. This is reflected in the results of our Life Sciences survey which revealed that more than 40% of Life Sciences professionals are currently looking for a new role.The COVID-19 pandemic led to a substantial increase in resignations across all industries, as many employees started to re-evaluate their priorities and seek roles that offered flexible remote-work policies. Consequently, companies have found it harder to get the people they need. 47.8 million workers in the U.S. decided to quit their jobs in 2021 – the highest volume of resignations since the Bureau of Labor Statistics began recording this data in 2001. This is equivalent to 3.98 million workers quitting their jobs each month, up from an average of roughly 3m leaving their jobs each month in 2019.Similar trends have been observed in Australia and the UK, where the rate of employed people between 16-64 choosing to switch jobs reached an all-time high of 3.2% between October-December 2021. The resignation rate continued to increase in 2022, with job-to-job resignations in the UK peaking at 442,000 in the second quarter of 2022. In Europe, one in three workers are considering quitting their jobs in the near term, with inadequate compensation and lack of career advancement being cited as the top factors.Why are Life Sciences professionals leaving their roles?The reasons that Life Sciences professionals have for wanting to leave their jobs vary across each industry sector. However, the promise of higher remuneration is invariably the main reason. This is according to findings from our Year in Review, which goes into greater depth about the factors that matter most to Life Sciences professionals when seeking to advance their careers.There are a host of other important factors, however, such as the desire for an improved work-life balance and employees wanting to acquire more new skills that will aid in their professional development. Changes in management can also cause people to want to move jobs, and Life Sciences professionals are increasingly looking for openings that provide flexible working hours and the ability to work from home.How to improve employee retentionThe good news is that there is a wide range of employee retention strategies that you can adopt in your workplace. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective employee retention techniques that you can use to ensure that your employees are satisfied at work and remain highly motivated in their positions, as opposed to looking elsewhere for their big career break.Offer competitive salaries and benefitsDissatisfaction around salary has had a negative impact on talent retention in the Life Sciences sector. As we’ve seen across the board, wanting higher compensation is the top reason for employees wanting to move to jobs; 70% of the R&D professionals that we surveyed within the Pharmacological industry were motivated by the promise of higher compensation at other companies.Paying your team a competitive rate is a simple but effective employee retention strategy that you can use to avoid your workforce shrinking. Our survey results show that the majority of respondents want a pay rise upwards of 10-15% of their current salary, which provides some indication of how much you may need to offer in order to remain competitive. Focus on career developmentYour employees will be far less likely to want to continue working for you long-term if there are few opportunities for advancement – or if their ability to develop their skills is limited. A study by Work Institute found that employees quit in 20% of cases due to career development issues.This highlights the importance of setting clear paths for career progression to give your team the motivation and provide them with long-term goals.Be flexibleOffering flexible working arrangements is a sure-fire way to keep your employees happy. Our Year in Review revealed that the option to work from home is very important to 60% of the industry as a whole. The majority of R&D respondents deemed flexibility as either important or very important, and workers in Pharmacovigilance ranked flexibility higher than salary when asked what is most important when considering a new job.Whilst a lack of flexible working options will not be a deal-breaker for many employees, you will find it far easier to retain your top talent if you grant them greater freedom to work according to their preferences.Build a supportive company cultureThere’s nothing quite like a warm, friendly culture when it comes to getting excellent work out of your employees. It’s also one of the best ways to increase their loyalty to the company.Seeking feedback from employees on a regular basis about how working processes might be improved helps ensure that workers feel that their concerns are being heard and addressed. Providing senior employees with the skills and training that they need to be good managers is also a worthwhile endeavour. Manufacturing professionals regard good leadership as almost as important as salary, according to our Year in Review survey.Promote work-life balanceMore than a third of respondents in our Life Sciences Year in Review report highlighted a poor work-life balance as one of the main reasons for wanting to seek employment in another role. Almost half of the Clinical Pharmacology professionals surveyed cited a need for an improved work-life balance as their main reason for seeking a new position.With higher numbers of professionals re-evaluating their priorities in life in the wake of the COVID pandemic, it’s no wonder that Life Sciences professionals are seeking out positions that allow them to spend more time with their families and friends. Giving your employees more personal time is therefore one of the most effective strategies for employee retention.Offer innovative, up-to-date technologiesFinally, ensure that you have the latest technology in your workplace. Investing in top-of-the-range software, for example, will make it easier for your employees to complete tasks and reduce the errors that are made, thereby increasing company productivity and boosting morale.Employee retention is critical to successThriving companies are characterized by a happy, satisfied workforce and high employee retention rates. Partner with EPM Scientific, a leading executive search firm for the Life Sciences industry, to find out more about how you can implement employee retention strategies that get results. Request a call back and one of our specialist consultants will be in touch. ​

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How to Determine if a New Hire Will Fit into Your Company's Culture Image
Management & Culture

How to Determine if a New Hire Will Fit into Your Company's Culture

There’s no question that a company’s culture and ethos can help its employees feel more satisfied at work, increase employee retention and ultimately serve as a catalyst for its success. Company culture is seen as very important by professionals: survey data collected by Glassdoor shows that more than three quarters of professionals take the culture into account before applying for a job, and 56% say that they see the culture of a company as playing a more significant role than salary in determining overall job satisfaction. Given the role that it plays, cultural fit should be a key priority for employers.Why is cultural fit important?If somebody is a good cultural fit for a company, they are far more likely to be an engaged, motivated employee who derives satisfaction from their role. There is a greater chance that they will see the job as more than just a source of income and as such, they will be more likely to go above and beyond in the workplace and may even inspire others to follow in their footsteps.Hiring for cultural fit therefore makes good business sense. 10-25% of new employees decide to leave within six months of starting work, and one reason that professionals give for quitting is that they feel that they are a poor fit for the company culture. Choosing people for the job who are a natural fit for the company’s values and working practices is a great way to avoid these problems from arising.How to hire for cultural fit?Given the importance of company culture, businesses are increasingly hiring for cultural fit. This involves defining what your culture is all about and incorporating questions at interview stage that relate to your interviewees’ values, motivations and aspirations.Define your company’s cultureThe first step is to describe your company’s culture in writing. What are the values, beliefs and ethics that characterize your company’s operations and working environment? If you are struggling to capture the essence of your culture, it might be worth asking current employees about how they feel about the company and its working practices. It is recommended that you use such feedback when writing or updating a mission statement and articulating your company values. Include these on your website and on all your digital platforms, in addition to testimonials from your current employees.Demonstrate your values throughout the interview processAsking values-based interview questions is one of the best ways to identify candidates who share your values and will be a good fit in the workplace.You should also draw attention to the benefits that you offer your employees. 56% of CFOs in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) have said that they are considering expanding benefits, including flexible working arrangements (FWAs), in a bid to retain their top talent. If you offer flexible working roles, ensure that your staff relay this information at interview stage.Cover the right questionsIf you’re wondering how to determine if a candidate is a good fit, asking the following questions will help shed light on the personality of your interviewees and their alignment with your values:What motivates you? How do you handle conflict in the workplace?What work environment supports innovation and productivity levels? Give me an example of something that you have taught yourself in the last six monthsWhat experiences have shaped your outlook on life?What are you most proud of?Utilize personality testsPersonality tests provide valuable insights into how prospective employees approach problems. They can also shed light on their ability to work alongside others and offer further information about their interests and preferences.Some of the most common personality tests used by employers include the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Caliper Profile and the 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire.Other key considerationsWhilst cultural fit is of great importance, it should be weighed alongside other factors. Hiring solely for cultural fit can perpetuate bias and lead to a lack of diversity within the workplace as a result. It’s also important to take into consideration an applicant’s qualifications, work experience, career aspirations and skill set when assessing their suitability for a role in your organization.Secure Life Sciences Talent with EPM ScientificAre you looking to solve your talent challenges? EPM Scientific offers bespoke talent solutions across Life Sciences A combination of our specialist account management service, ongoing support and reporting, and hiring advice allows us to find you exactly the people you need, when you need them. Register your vacancy or request a call back today.Our Talent Expertise​​​

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Benefits of Life Sciences Contract Work Image
Pharmacology

Benefits of Life Sciences Contract Work

According to Statista, 86.5 million people in the United States alone will be freelancing by 2027, which is more than half of the country’s workforce – and this is a trend that’s not limited to the US. In Europe, it’s estimated that there are already 32.3 million freelancers making up 15% of the total labor market.If you’re in the Life Sciences sector, you can enjoy the benefits of contract work. The big question is, would a contract job be the right choice for you? This is an important question especially if you’ve built your career in permanent roles. Consider the benefits of being a contract employee and weigh them up against your own priorities to be better able to make an informed decision.The benefit of higher payHigher pay is one of the benefits of contract work. There’s a misconception that Life Sciences contractors do not earn as much as those in permanent roles, but the reality is that most Life Science companies are often willing to pay contract workers more money.  One of the reasons for this is that those companies do not have to cover health benefits, social security taxes, 401K (retirement) contributions, unemployment compensation, or Medicare for contract workers. They also understand that they need to compensate for the lack of company benefits and a steady income, especially if those contractors have a high level of expertise in their field.Freedom of choiceThe freedom to choose who you work with, where you work, and for how long you work is another of the benefits of contract jobs. As a contractor, you can carefully select the Life Sciences companies you want to work for, and you can choose roles or projects that interest you and avoid those that don’t. In addition, you can select the contracts that best suit you, whether you consider the location in which you will be based or the length of the contract.Gaining broad skills and experienceThe potential to gain much broader skillsets and a wealth of experience is another benefit of contract work in the Life Sciences sector. Making this benefit even more attractive is that you can do this in a relatively short time.As a contractor, you probably will fill a specific role for a variety of Life Sciences companies. By working on different projects in those companies, you will gain insights into and experience in a diversity of systems and workflows, some of which will be unique to specific companies. This is not possible if you remain a permanent employee within one company.Contract work also keeps work experience fresh, as your responsibilities are not likely to become monotonous or repetitive. The continued challenges that come your way are opportunities to diversify your skillset, which will count in your favor as you continue to progress your career through contract jobs. Find the right roleSince 2012, EPM Scientific has placed candidates in their next Life Sciences role, including both contract and permanent positions. Register your resume on our site to access the latest role​s on the Life Sciences job market and find out how we can help you define your next career move.​

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The Benefits of using Life Sciences contractors/freelancers

The use of life sciences contractors and freelancers is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Not only are they able to provide specialized expertise, but they also offer a wide range of benefits that can help a business grow and thrive. Here are 10 of the top benefits of using life sciences contractors and freelancers.1. Cost Savings: Hiring contractors and freelancers is often significantly cheaper than hiring full-time staff. This is because you only pay for the services you need, when you need them.2. Flexibility: Contractors and freelancers offer flexibility that traditional employees cannot. You can easily scale up or down your workforce as needed, allowing you to meet fluctuating demands.3. Access To Specialized Expertise: Life sciences contractors and freelancers often have specialized skills and expertise that can be invaluable to a business.4. Faster Turnaround Time: When you need something done quickly, hiring a contractor or freelancer is often the fastest way to get the job done.5. Reduced Overhead: Contractors and freelancers don’t require the investment in overhead expenses that full-time employees do, such as office space and benefits.6. Fresh Perspective: Bringing in a contractor or freelancer can bring a fresh perspective to a project and help generate new ideas.7. Lower Risk: Hiring a contractor or freelancer reduces the risk that comes with hiring full-time employees. If a project doesn’t meet expectations, you can simply end the contract and look for a better fit.8. Increased Productivity: With more specialized expertise, contractors and freelancers can often complete projects more efficiently and quickly than full-time employees.9. Focus On Core Activities: By outsourcing more specialized tasks to contractors and freelancers, businesses can focus more on their core activities and reduce distractions.10. Improved Morale: Hiring contractors and freelancers can help to improve morale among existing staff, as they don’t have to take on extra tasks they may not be qualified or comfortable with.At EPM Scientific, we are the leading provider of life sciences contract and freelance recruitment services. We understand the importance of finding the right talent for the job, and have the experience and expertise to help you find the perfect candidate for your business. Request a call back from us todayto learn more about how we can help you find the perfect contractor or freelancer for your business.

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