Senior Specialist, R&D Lab Operations

About the Role

The Senior Specialist, R&D Lab Operationsis part of the R&D Lab Operations team, reports to the Head of Lab Operations, and is responsible for supporting and coordinating the oversight of critical lab operations, including buffer/media preparation, equipment preparation and temperature-controlled environments such as cold rooms, freezers and incubators. This role ensures the smooth execution of day-to-day laboratory infrastructure processes delivered by external partners (e.g., ISS under the IFM program), aligning them with Takeda’s internal compliance, quality, and safety standards.

How you will contribute:

• Plan and oversee buffer/media preparation workflows across R&D functions, ensuring IFM partners execute work effectively while maintaining operational continuity and compliance.
• Oversee lab infrastructure operations, ensuring equipment is maintained and calibrated. Ensure PCS and CIP systems are adequately serviced by coordinating with technical specialists.
• Monitor and ensure optimal performance of cold rooms, freezers, and incubators, focusing on temperature control and calibration.
• Develop, maintain, and ensure adherence to SOPs aligned with internal and external standards.
• Enforce safety protocols for hazardous chemical handling and ensure legal compliance.
• Conduct inspections and validate service delivery by IFM partners.
• Manage and optimize KPIs to ensure performance, drive continuous improvement, and minimize inefficiencies.

Skills and qualifications:

• HTL diploma in biotechnology or related field with 7+ years of experience, or a Bachelor’s degree (or higher) with 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Proven expertise in lab operations, infrastructure management, EHS compliance, and SOP development.
• Strong understanding of automated systems, particularly PCS, and the ability to effectively coordinate with technical support to address system maintenance and issues.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage diverse stakeholders.
• Fluent in German and business proficiency in English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strategic mindset with strong problem-solving and prioritization skills, while remaining collaborative, proactive, and adaptable in a global, fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with process automation tools such as Power Platform is an advantage

What we offer you:

A competitive remuneration package with a minimum salary of € 4.270,14 gross per month (full-time, collective wage agreement for the chemical industry) - the actual salary is higher and depends on your professional experience and qualifications.

• Family-friendly company environment; support with parental leave, dad month, Bilingual company kindergarten
• Work@home depending on the position / department
• Commuting allowance or parking space (tax applicable) 
• Comprehensive training programs
• In-house job rotation program
• In-house Canteen with discounts or meal vouchers
• Works council (events, festivals, shopping vouchers, etc.)
• Employee Referral Program
• Employee Recognition Program
• Takeda Resource Groups
• Medical checkups
• Free vaccination program
• Fitness Center in I67
• Employee discounts 
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Group accident insurance 

More About Us:

Takeda is a patient-focused, values-based, R&D-driven global biopharmaceutical company committed to bringing Better Health and a Brighter Future to people worldwide. Our passion and pursuit of potentially life-changing treatments for patients are deeply rooted in over 230 years of distinguished history in Japan.

Certified as a Global Top Employer, Takeda offers stimulating careers, encourages innovation, and strives for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world.

Make History, Change Futures.

For over 240 years, Takeda’s propensity to evolve has driven the next generation of innovation. Today, the organization spans the globe—colleagues across business units and functions face challenges head-on to deliver on our vision. The omnipresent patient focus instills pride in personal contributions.

How we will support you:

Takeda is proud of its commitment to create a diverse workforce and to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you are living with disabilities, chronic illness, or neurodiversity, please feel free to let us know so that we can provide you with appropriate support during the application process.