Process Scientist

About the Opportunity

AbbVie Westport is the largest operating facility in the AbbVie global network and a recognised centre of excellence for aseptic fill-finish operations. Our Westport site is a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a strong pipeline of new product introductions, technology transfers, and development projects spanning both small and large molecule programmes.

We are looking for a talented and driven Process Scientist to join our Eyecare Technical Centre, supporting the Eyecare Unit Dose, Multi Dose, and Implants Business Units. This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in bringing innovative ophthalmic products to patients worldwide, working within a highly collaborative team of scientific and technical professionals.

The Role

Reporting to the Eyecare Technical Lead and the Director of the Technical Centre, you will lead cross-functional teams — spanning Operations, Global Program Management, PQA, and Process Development & Science Technology (PDS&T) — to ensure the timely and compliant execution of technology transfer activities, manufacturing support, and continuous process improvement initiatives.

You will be instrumental in maintaining site supply readiness for new AbbVie products through major and regional market launches, and will lead portfolio change programmes including raw material changes, batch size changes, new technology introductions, and vendor updates.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership to the Westport site, aligning with AbbVie's global vision and mission.
• Lead and manage cross-functional teams to deliver technology transfer milestones and product launch readiness.
• Serve as a primary technical resource for manufacturing issues, driving data-driven root cause analysis and resolution.
• Lead complex and high-impact Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) within the Eyecare portfolio.
• Identify, plan, and execute process and technology improvement programmes, including Cost Improvement (CI) initiatives.
• Lead portfolio change activities such as raw material changes, new technology introductions, and vendor updates.
• Represent the site at customer, regulatory-facing meetings, and regulatory audits.
• Ensure all activities are carried out in full compliance with GMP and relevant local and global policies and SOPs.
• Support digitisation of Eyecare and Implants operations and contribute to the Track and Trend programme.
• Support Commissioning & Qualification (C&Q) of process equipment in collaboration with Global and Site Engineering.
• Drive Process Safety improvements within the Eyecare and Implants operations.
• Coach and develop colleagues, fostering a high-performance team culture and promoting cross-departmental training.
• Support financial planning activities including budgets, strategic projects, and cost improvement commitments.

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline; a Master's or PhD in Engineering, Science, or Technology is a distinct advantage.
• 8+ years of relevant pharmaceutical industry experience (BSc); 7+ years (MSc); 5+ years (PhD).
• Demonstrated end-to-end experience of product transfer and launch phases, including regulatory engagements.
• Strong technical background in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, with proven troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across Commercial, Operations, Global, and R&D functions.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with the agility to adapt to shifting priorities and constraints.