What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager, Advanced Engineering position at Thorne?
At Thorne, we work to deliver high-quality, science-backed solutions to empower individuals to take a proactive approach to their well-being. Each day begins with a mission to help others discover and achieve their best health. We count on our team members to challenge and push the boundaries to make that happen. At Thorne, you’ll be joining a team of more than 750 passionate individuals committed to our cause of providing superior health solutions at every age and life stage.
Position Summary: The Manager, Advanced Engineering plays a critical leadership role in driving innovation and continuous improvement across Thorne’s manufacturing operations. Reporting to the Director of Engineering, this position leads the development and execution of advanced process solutions, supporting everything from new product introductions and reformulations to equipment upgrades and component innovations.
This role is responsible for identifying and implementing high-impact engineering strategies that enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and scalability. The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset and a passion for advancing health and wellness through cutting-edge manufacturing practices.
Responsibilities
- Develop, prioritize, and drive the process improvement programs / initiatives as defined by Director, Engineering to ensure efficiency, reduce labor costs and maximize product yield.
- Apply engineering and science fundamentals to create new methods and programs that lead to production and engineering systems improvements.
- Create, review and update as necessary foundational engineering systems for Engineering Drawings, Failure Modes & Effects Analysis, Project Management, Risk Management and other systems as assigned by Director of Engineering.
- Support the New Product Introduction Process, through the initial approval and trial phases – including, but not limited to – engineering resource assignment, extensive formula review, proof of concept, powder characterization, encapsulation trials and pilot batch development.
- Research and maintain knowledge of the latest processing technologies applicable to Thorne processes and provide executable recommendations to leadership.
- Coordinate and oversee new manufacturing equipment specifications, URS’s, acceptance testing (SAT & FAT), draft Operation SOP’s and qualifications.
- Ensure procedures within the Engineering Group are defined, documented (SOP’s, WI’s, forms) and maintained. This includes, but is not limited to, research and development activities, equipment specifications/URS, labequipment, procedures, and material classification protocols.
- Review and/or approve (or assign trained designee) the following documents including, but not limited to: Master Formulas, Formula Changes, MMR’s, Component Specifications, Raw Material Specifications, Finished Product Specifications, Production Equipment SOP’s, forms and Work Instructions, and OCM specifications.
- Provide technical support as SME and advice as required in response to processing problems to Production. Occasional support of MRB and Process Validation activities will be required.
- Ensure regular, accurate Engineering status reports (project status, issues, schedule adherence, KPIs and other items as deemed necessary) are submitted to the Director of Engineering.
- Build and lead a high performing team, secure the best talent, develop and strengthen staff and future leaders, and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.
What You Need
- Minimum of 10 years’ experience in Pharmaceutical, Biopharmaceutical, or Dietary Supplement Manufacturing, at least 3 years’ experience in a management position, and a minimum of 3 years’
- experience in Process Development & Process Engineering in an FDA-regulated environment.
- Experience working with lab equipment, pilot jobs and experimentation following GLP standards is preferred.
- Experience with ISO and/or cGMP standards required.
- Powder handling, bulk material handling & processing experience is a plus.
- Experience in highspeed encapsulation process is a plus.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation
- 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employees
- Company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance
- Company- paid life insurance
- 401k plan with employer matching contributions up to 4%
- Gym membership reimbursement
- Monthly allowance of Thorne supplements
- Paid time off, volunteer time off and holiday leave
- Training, professional development, and career growth opportunities
Thorne is the leader in science-backed health and wellness solutions committed to helping individuals live healthier longer. As the top recommended clinical brand by healthcare practitioners, Thorne offers a comprehensive range of products including nutritional supplements and health tests designed to meet the unique needs of individuals at every stage of life. Founded in 1984, Thorne products are formulated with the highest-quality ingredients, supported by clinical research, and rigorously tested to ensure purity, potency, and efficacy. Thorne is trusted by 47,000 health-care professionals, thousands of professional athletes, more than 100 professional sports teams, multiple U.S. National Teams, and more than five million consumers. For more information, visit Thorne.com .
THORNE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER