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Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations Jobs in Riverside, CA

... direct management of clinical operations staff). Skills and Abilities Required for This Job ... Proven ability to manage and oversee clinical sites, including startup, activation, enrollment ...

Clinical Director

Orange, CA · On-site

$145K/yr

You'll partner with operational leadership while supporting direct patient care, supervising clinicians, driving quality outcomes, and building a culture centered around exceptional care. Why this ...

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Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$62.6K

$152.3K

$294.7K

How much do biotech startup director clinical operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for biotech startup director clinical operations in Riverside, CA is $152,285.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,400.00 and $181,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a biotech startup director clinical operations do?

A Biotech Startup Director of Clinical Operations oversees the planning, execution, and management of clinical trials at an emerging biotechnology company. Their responsibilities include building and leading the clinical operations team, ensuring regulatory compliance, developing trial protocols, managing budgets and timelines, and collaborating with cross-functional departments like regulatory affairs, medical affairs, and R&D. They play a critical role in advancing new therapies from early-stage trials through to later phases, often in a fast-paced and resource-limited startup environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a biotech startup director clinical operations, and how can they be addressed?

A Biotech Startup Director of Clinical Operations often faces challenges such as limited resources, rapidly shifting priorities, and the need to establish efficient processes from the ground up. Balancing the demands of regulatory compliance with the agility required in a startup environment can be particularly complex. Success often depends on building a strong, cross-functional team, leveraging external partnerships, and proactively communicating with stakeholders to ensure alignment and timely decision-making. Adapting quickly and fostering a culture of collaboration are essential to overcoming these hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biotech startup director clinical operations?

To excel as a Biotech Startup Director of Clinical Operations, you need a deep understanding of clinical trial management, regulatory compliance, and drug development, typically supported by an advanced degree in life sciences and significant industry experience. Familiarity with clinical trial management systems (CTMS), electronic data capture (EDC) platforms, and GCP certification is commonly required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for leading teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These competencies ensure that clinical trials are executed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulatory standards, which is crucial for the success and growth of a biotech startup.

What is the difference between Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations vs Clinical Project Manager?

AspectBiotech Startup Director Clinical OperationsClinical Project Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees all clinical operations, strategic planning, team leadership, and regulatory compliance in a biotech startup setting.Manages individual clinical trials, coordinates project activities, timelines, and budgets under supervision.
Required CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (e.g., MS, PhD), clinical research experience, and leadership skills.Requires a bachelor's or master's degree in life sciences or related field, with experience in clinical trial management.
Work EnvironmentFast-paced startup environment with cross-functional teams, high responsibility, and strategic focus.Structured environment within pharmaceutical or biotech companies, focusing on specific trial execution.

The Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations holds a broader leadership role, overseeing multiple trials and strategic initiatives, while the Clinical Project Manager focuses on managing individual clinical studies. Both roles require clinical research experience, but the director position demands more leadership and strategic planning skills.

What job categories do people searching Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Biotech Startup Director Clinical Operations job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,285 per year, or $73.2 per hour.

Director, Clinical Operations

TOTAL VISION LLC

Mission Viejo, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

General Summary

Provide strategic oversight and direct operational and administrative functions impacting doctor services and clinical operations. Drive the adoption of innovative technologies, foster effective vendor partnerships, and implement professional services to enhance both current practices and long-term sustained growth. Collaborate closely with Field and Central Operations Teams to ensure alignment. Lead, manage, and monitor all clinical operations initiatives and projects to promote operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Essential Functions 

With PC Shareholder approval and senior leadership guidance, assist and manage assigned Optometrists in your territory, and facilitate efficient operations for Doctor-led practices.Partner with cross-functional teams and Clinical Operations to lead and execute doctor programs.Support vendor, IT, and Clinical Operations collaboration for all clinical software and hardware. Responsible for driving adoption of ODs to new software/hardware updates.Direct doctor-related aspects of new, relocation, or remodel clinic projects.Manage financial modeling and recommendations for key clinical investments.Create, lead, maintain and track all Clinical Operations initiatives and assigned projects.Lead ODs in practices to drive key metrics including Capture Rate and Premier Attachment, Exams Per Hour, and others as directed by leadership. Ensure execution of basic initiatives are in place consistently to allow achievement of goals/KPIs.Work two days as a doctor providing clinical services and three days working in the field providing leadership support to drive results with doctors in assigned territory.Practice Optometry in accordance with the clinical guidelines set forth by the American Optometric Association and the American Academy of Optometry.Comply with HIPAA policies and maintain complete/accurate patient records.Establish a positive and professional Doctor/patient relationship.Provide and model the highest level of quality patient care as it relates to general/ocular health overall.Collaborate and partner with leadership and staff to ensure a seamless patient experience.Show support, commitment, and leadership for the Company's vision and values in all actions and communication. Ensure ODs in your area uphold these standards in their Optometry practices.

Job Specifications

Typically has the following skills or abilities:Optometry Degree from accredited school/college of OptometryLicensed Optometrist in the state of CaliforniaMinimum of five (5) years of related clinical or operational experienceMinimum of 6 years of management experience with responsibilities for hiring, training, assigning work and managing performance of direct reportsStrong communication and operational skillsSkilled in examining and re-engineering operations and proceduresProficient in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and email communication.Customer service experience in a retail environment strongly preferredStrong business aptitude, self-discipline, and ability to deliver outstanding patient careAbility to exercise discretion and independent judgment in the performance of his/her job duties

Working Conditions

The working environment is generally favorable. Lighting and temperature are adequate, and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust etc.The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.