Senior Specialist, Quality Control

Umoja Biopharma is a game-changing biotech start-up with locations in Seattle, WA and Louisville, CO, focused on transforming the treatment of cancer with a novel integrated immunotherapy platform. Our vision is to develop off-the-shelf therapies capable of treating any tumor, any time. We are a diverse and growing team working in brand-new facilities in downtown Seattle, Washington, and Louisville, Colorado, and we are looking for innovative thinkers who are excited by groundbreaking science and technology, and passionate about squaring up to the challenges inherent to cutting edge drug development. We are committed to the principles of Diversity Equity and Inclusion and strongly invite applications from enthusiastic individuals who share our commitment and help position Umoja as a leader in this front.

We at Umoja believe in the importance of stories; we are looking for great people to join our team to help us create more stories for ourselves, for you, and most importantly for patients and their families. 

Umoja Biopharma – Your Body. Your Hope. Your Cure. 

Position Summary

Umoja Biopharma is looking for a highly driven and self-motivated Senior Specialist to join our newly established QC analytical laboratory. This critical role will help shape the operations and culture of our early-phase QC organization and will work closely with cross-functional teams to advance Umoja's mission.

As a senior technical contributor, you will influence QC strategy, execution, and support QC initiatives including analytical method lifecycle, stability programs, and GMP operations. You’ll collaborate with Quality management and cross-functionally with Analytical Development, Manufacturing, QA, Regulatory, and Process Sciences to ensure Quality Control excellence and compliance in support of Umoja’s groundbreaking therapies.

This Position will report to the Director of Quality Control and will be based at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Louisville, CO.

Core Accountabilities

Specific responsibilities include:

• Embody Umoja’s values while fostering a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative team culture.
• Champion Operational Excellence and LEAN principles to drive continuous improvement within QC processes and systems.
• Independently develop and work with management to implement phase appropriate, compliant GMP QC programs including, but not limited to:
• Method Validation/Lifecycle Management
• Method Trending
• Critical Reagent and Standards Management
• Data Integrity and LIMS
• Collaborate cross-functionally with QC partners to advance company goals and initiatives such as New Product Introductions, Regulatory Submissions, and Capital Projects.
• Utilize expertise to act as subject matter expert (SME) for multiple analytical method technologies and aid in situational problem-solving, investigations, and improvement initiatives.
• Proactively identify method performance issues and effectively communicate solutions to senior management and site leadership.
• Review and authorize analytical testing results in support of Lot Release, Stability, and protocol-based testing.
• Represent Quality Control in core and product specific analytical working groups.
• Remain flexible in support of adjacent functions (Analytical Development, Validation, etc.) to ensure company goals and timelines are met.
  
  

The Successful Candidate Will Have

• Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biology, or other life science with a minimum of 7 years in a cGMP regulated QC environment. Equivalent combinations of advanced education and experience will be considered.
• Strong background in QC operations, including analytical method lifecycle, stability, and technical program ownership.
• A passion for teamwork and unwavering commitment to purpose, team success, and the championing of an outstanding workplace culture.
• Proven ability to work independently and lead collaboratively within a team-driven environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with a consistent record of meeting objectives.
• Firm grasp of Operational Excellence/Continuous Improvement philosophies and experience with practical application in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Analytical experience in molecular biology assays such as PCR, ELISA, or cell-based testing.
• Knowledge of relevant pharmaceutical regulations and regulatory guidance (CFR, ICH, USP, Ph. Eur., etc.)
• Experience with building or improving electronic LIMS sample management systems.
• The ability to independently assess risk, propose solutions, and adapt in a dynamic startup environment.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting laboratory startup, implementing quality systems, and improving QC programs.
• Background in cGMP cell and gene therapy manufacturing or analytical environments.
• Familiarity with Microbiology and use of aseptic techniques are a plus.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to gown-in aseptically and work in a Clean Room environment
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment including gloves, protective clothing, and eye safety glasses.
• Ability to work while gowned for extended periods of time
• Must have the ability to work around laboratories, manufacturing areas and equipment, and regularly lift 20 lbs.
  
  

Salary Range: $102,000 - $126,000

Benefits Offerings

Umoja Biopharma offers its employees competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans. Additionally, we offer Umojians access to a 401k plan through Fidelity, with a 100% match up to their first 4% deferral. Umoja also provides a generous Paid Time Off policy, employee commuter benefits, and cell phone stipend. For a full breakdown of our benefits offerings, please see the Benefits section of our website.