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Director Preclinical Development Jobs in Missouri

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Senior Scientist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Louis, MO (on-site) | Full-time We're a preclinical drug discovery company building first-in-class ... Small team, real ownership, direct line to the CEO. We need someone fluent in the wet lab and ...

Working primarily with preclinical species and human tissues/organ subcellular fractions, the ... The individual will contribute to the development of in vitro-to-in vivo relationships related to ...

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Director Preclinical Development information

See Missouri salary details

$38K

$86.7K

$145.4K

How much do director preclinical development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for director preclinical development in Missouri is $86,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $101,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a director preclinical development?

A Director of Preclinical Development oversees the early-stage research and testing of drug candidates before they enter clinical trials. They manage preclinical studies, ensuring regulatory compliance, safety, and efficacy assessments. This role involves coordinating with cross-functional teams, external partners, and regulatory agencies to advance promising compounds. Strong expertise in toxicology, pharmacology, and regulatory guidelines is essential. The director plays a key role in shaping the preclinical strategy to support successful drug development.

What are the typical responsibilities and team dynamics for a director preclinical development?

A Director of Preclinical Development is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and management of preclinical research programs, ensuring that studies meet scientific, regulatory, and project milestones. You will typically work with cross-functional teams including toxicologists, pharmacologists, regulatory affairs professionals, and external partners, fostering collaboration throughout the drug development process. The role often involves reviewing study designs and data, preparing regulatory submissions, and providing strategic direction to advance compounds toward clinical testing. Working closely with upper management, you'll play a key part in shaping research priorities and resource allocation. This position offers significant influence over drug development strategies and opportunities for advancement to higher executive or scientific leadership roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the director preclinical development position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Preclinical Development, you need deep expertise in pharmaceutical or biotechnology research, strong project management abilities, and an advanced degree (Ph.D., Pharm.D., or equivalent) in a life sciences field. Familiarity with regulatory guidelines (such as GLP), experience using data management and statistical analysis software, and prior leadership roles in preclinical studies are essential. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and team leadership skills set candidates apart in managing multidisciplinary teams and collaborative projects. These competencies are crucial for successfully guiding drug candidates through preclinical stages while ensuring regulatory compliance and timely project delivery.

What are popular job titles related to Director Preclinical Development jobs in Missouri?

For Director Preclinical Development jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Director Preclinical Development jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Director Preclinical Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Preclinical Development job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,658 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Scientist/ Study Director Toxicology - Preclinical CRO

Columbia, MO

RPM ReSearch
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Senior Study Director/ Toxicologist


We are a growing mid-size organization with multiple sites looking for an accomplished Senior Study Director for our Toxicology division to assist with the growth we are experiencing and have plans to continue. 


Say Goodbye to the bureaucracy and the administrative aspects of large cumbersome organizations and say Hello to the Science! 


As a Senior Study Director, you will be responsible for participating in the design of non-clinical / preclinical studies as well as providing the scientific oversight of the study. 

These studies will involve standard laboratory animal species (mice, rats, NHP, swine) across typical test article types (Vaccines, Biopharmaceuticals, Small Molecules).

This role will encompass multiple site studies and coordination thereof. 


  • Maintaining and completing multiple projects simultaneously

  • Developing Protocols

  • Communicating with staff, management, and clients/sponsors

  • Analysis, interpretation, and reporting of data from non-clinical studies. 

  • Manage the conduct of study activities in compliance with the protocol, amendments, and facility SOPs

  • May also assist in the further development of SOPs, training materials, and policies. 

  • Proactive recognition, documentation, and resolution of any issues affecting the conduct of non-clinical studies. 

  • Maintain knowledge of FDA and other regulatory guidelines

  • Work with the appropriate individuals to design and approve the study protocols

  • Perform other duties directed by the Director of Toxicology to meet client needs. 


Experience, Education, and Specialized Knowledge and Skills: 

Education

At least 5 years of experience directing non-clinical in vivo studies at a CRO or Pharmaceutical Company with a BS

-or-

At least 2 years of relevant industry/ toxicology experience with an MS or Ph.D./DVM

DABT or board eligible preferred

Demonstrated expertise in a scientific discipline


Essential Skills include: leadership, good organizational skills, knowledge of an experience with GLP (Good Laboratory Practices), AAALAC and USDA guidelines, experience using computer applications.