Working in manufacturing in a biotech company can be a unique and rewarding experience. You get to see the fruits of your labor; the work you do results in physical products that people use in their everyday lives. Seeing this result can provide a great sense of accomplishment and purpose.
Our manufacturing teams play a crucial role in fulfilling our mission to deliver innovative medicines that can transform people's lives. The team is a part of our global Pharmaceutical Operations & Technology (PO&T) function. From quality control, to process development, to engineering, operations and more, each part of PO&T works to turn science into medicine – developing, manufacturing, and delivering therapies to patients with the highest level of care and quality.
We caught up with a few members of our global manufacturing team to learn about their experiences and why they believe manufacturing to be a rewarding career.
Technology
One of the most stimulating parts of working in manufacturing is the access to state-of-the-art technology and machinery. David Hamilton, an industry veteran with more than 38 years working in the pharmaceutical/biotech space and eight-plus years at Biogen specifically, says “With the advancement of technology, manufacturing is continually evolving.” Because of this, our manufacturing teams can work with the latest cutting-edge technologies and processes. This aspect of ongoing progression “makes it an exciting field to be in,” Hamilton says.
Constant Learning
For many, learning is a great way to stay engaged, helping one to develop new skills and ultimately advance their career. Within our manufacturing team, there’s no shortage of this. “My role involves a lot of problem solving,” explains Connie Shearin, a Manufacturing Lead based out of North Carolina. “You're constantly looking for ways to improve processes, increase efficiency, and ensure the highest quality.” And at Biogen there’s plenty of ways to continue learning and develop one’s career. For example, Shearin had the opportunity to spend four months on a special assignment at our Solothurn, Switzerland site. “The challenges and learning opportunities have made my experience highly stimulating and engaging.”
Connie Shearin, Lead, Manufacturing
Teamwork
Manufacturing is a team effort. You'll work closely with people from various departments and backgrounds towards a common goal. This leads to strong camaraderie and a sense of belonging – something our team takes pride in. According to Derek Burton Jr., “I like that I get to work alongside a group of individuals who share a common passion for helping others in need.” Joining the Biogen team in 2021, Burton transitioned his career from research to manufacturing. “Each day, we come into work with a positive mindset and work together to execute with the highest standard of quality,” he says.
With sizeable manufacturing sites in the Research Triangle Park region of North Carolina and another in Solothurn, Switzerland, there’s no shortage of opportunities here. Whether it be in manufacturing, engineering, quality assurance or other areas of our PO&T function, we provide an opportunity to join a group of global, skilled, and dedicated individuals. The common thread: people who come to work every day to execute with excellence.
If you’re looking for a role in manufacturing, we are seeking talented individuals who can bring relentless execution rooted in safety and quality. Check out our open positions now.
