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Drug Development Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

Labcorp is a leader in diagnostics, drug development and healthcare innovation. Across every role, we harness data and AI to work smarter, move faster and create breakthrough solutions that improve ...

Labcorp is a leader in diagnostics, drug development and healthcare innovation. Across every role, we harness data and AI to work smarter, move faster and create breakthrough solutions that improve ...

Power System R&D Engineer

Holyoke, MA · On-site

$123K - $168K/yr

Have you heard about ISO New England's Advanced Technology Solutions (ATS) group - the R&D engine ... We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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Drug Development information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$32.5K

$76.3K

$131K

How much do drug development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug development in Amherst, MA is $76,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,600.00 and $89,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is drug development?

Drug development is the process of bringing a new pharmaceutical drug to market. It involves several stages, including drug discovery, preclinical research, clinical trials, and regulatory approval. Each stage is designed to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of the drug before it can be made available to patients. The entire process can take several years and requires collaboration between scientists, clinicians, regulatory agencies, and pharmaceutical companies.

What are the typical stages of collaboration between different teams in a drug development role?

In drug development, professionals regularly collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, including research scientists, clinical trial coordinators, regulatory affairs specialists, and manufacturing experts. Early stages involve close work with research and discovery teams to identify promising compounds, followed by coordination with clinical teams during trial phases, and finally with regulatory and production teams as the drug moves toward approval and commercialization. Effective communication and cross-functional teamwork are essential, as each stage relies on timely data sharing and joint problem-solving to navigate complex challenges.

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

To thrive in Drug Development, you need a strong background in pharmaceutical sciences, biology, or chemistry, often supported by an advanced degree (e.g., PhD, PharmD, or MSc). Familiarity with regulatory compliance, clinical trial management systems, and data analysis software such as SAS or R is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and cross-functional communication skills help professionals excel in this multidisciplinary field. These competencies ensure that new drugs are developed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Drug Development vs Pharmacologist?

AspectDrug DevelopmentPharmacologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or related fields; often requires experience in clinical trialsDegree in Pharmacology, Pharmacy, or related fields; may require licensing or certification for clinical practice
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, clinical trial sitesResearch labs, hospitals, academic institutions, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageDeveloping new drugs, overseeing clinical trials, regulatory submissionsStudying drug effects, mechanisms, safety, and efficacy; advising on drug use

While both roles are integral to the pharmaceutical industry, Drug Development focuses on creating and bringing new drugs to market through research, testing, and regulatory processes. Pharmacologists primarily study how drugs interact with biological systems, often working in research or clinical settings to understand drug effects and safety. The two roles often collaborate but differ in their core responsibilities and career focus.

How much do drug development professionals make?

Drug development professionals, including roles such as research scientists and clinical trial managers, typically earn salaries ranging from $70,000 to over $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior positions or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in biotech and pharmaceutical companies.

Is drug development a good career?

Drug development is a challenging and rewarding career that involves research, clinical trials, and regulatory processes to bring new medications to market. It requires strong scientific knowledge, attention to detail, and often collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. The field offers opportunities for growth, innovation, and contributing to public health, but can also involve long hours and high responsibility.

What career develops drugs?

A career in drug development typically involves roles such as pharmacologist, medicinal chemist, clinical researcher, or regulatory affairs specialist. These professionals work in laboratories, research facilities, or pharmaceutical companies to discover, test, and bring new drugs to market, often requiring knowledge of biology, chemistry, and regulatory processes.

What job categories do people searching Drug Development jobs in Amherst, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drug Development jobs in Amherst, MA are:

What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Drug Development jobs?

Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Drug Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Drug Development job openings in Amherst, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,266 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Team Lead

Labcorp

Holyoke, MA • On-site

$35 - $44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Labcorp rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 1,145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Labcorp is a leader in diagnostics, drug development and healthcare innovation. Across every role, we harness data and AI to work smarter, move faster and create breakthrough solutions that improve health outcomes for people. With our global scale and deep expertise, you'll do meaningful work, grow your career and make a real impact. Together, we're improving health and improving lives.
$5,000 sign on bonus (external candidates only)
Labcorp is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Team Leader to join our team at our lab in Holyoke, MA
Work Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday 12:30 am - 9:00 am
Eligible for 15% shift differential.
Job Responsibilities
  • Assist with the day to day operations of the Core Lab
  • Operate and monitor the automation line to ensure continuous, efficient specimen processing
  • Send daily, weekly and monthly productions reports to management
  • Assist with the training of new hires and the development of current employees
  • Keep supervisor informed of group progress, problems, employee performance and any significant factors affecting assigned responsibilities
  • Determine the acceptability of specimens for testing according to established criteria
  • Perform routine and complex technical procedures and functions according to SOPs
  • Load, unload, and manage samples, consumables, and carriers within the system
  • Verify correct specimen routing, labeling, and system tracking
  • Respond to system alerts, alarms, and workflow interruptions
  • Perform first-level troubleshooting of mechanical, robotic, and software-related issues
  • Clear jams, misroutes, and minor mechanical faults according to SOPs
  • Execute routine daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance tasks (cleaning, inspections, calibrations)
  • Document system events, downtime, corrective actions, and maintenance activities
  • Communicate system status, delays, or issues clearly and promptly, and escalate unresolved issues to service providers and supervisors
  • Coordinate with laboratory technologists to align automation workflow with testing priorities
  • Work closely with service engineers during service visits
  • Monitor, operate and troubleshoot instrumentation to ensure proper functionality
  • Prepare, test and evaluate new reagents or controls
  • Report accurate and timely test results in order to deliver quality patient care
  • Perform and document preventive maintenance and quality control procedures
  • Identify and replenish testing bench supplies as necessary
  • Assist with processing of specimens when needed
  • Maintain a safe work environment and wear appropriate personal protective equipment
  • Follow all laboratory SOPs, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements
  • Participate in audits, validations, and continuous improvement initiatives

Requirements
  • Associate's degree in a Chemical or Biological science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology or a non-traditional Associate's degree that meets local regulatory (CLIA & State) requirements
  • Minimum 3 years of experience as a Technologist/Technician

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a Chemical or Biological science, Clinical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology
  • ASCP and AMT Certification

Additional Job Standards
  • In lieu of education requirements listed above, non-traditional degrees with applicable science credits that meet CLIA standards may meet education requirements
  • Understanding of laboratory operations as well as policies and procedures
  • Proficient with Laboratory Information Systems and Microsoft Office
  • Familiarity middleware or automation control software preferred
  • Prior experience with Inpeco or similar laboratory automation systems are a plus
  • Strong communication skills; both written and verbal
  • High level of attention to detail with strong organizational skills
  • Proficient problem-solving, trouble-shooting, time management, and prioritization skills
  • Effective teamwork and adaptability to changing workflows and system upgrades
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle the physical requirements of the position

The Automation Line Operator (ALO) is responsible for the day-to-day operation, monitoring, and basic troubleshooting of the Inpeco total laboratory automation (TLA) system. This role ensures smooth specimen flow, system uptime, and compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory standards. The ALO serves as the first point of response for automation-related issues and collaborates closely with laboratory staff, engineering, and IT to maintain efficient operations.
**Pay Range: $35.00 - 44.00/ hour + 15% Differential
All job offers will be based on a candidate's skills and prior relevant experience, applicable degrees/certifications, as well as internal equity and market data. (Remove for non-pay transparency states)
Benefits: Employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week are eligible for comprehensive benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD/LTD, 401(k), Paid Time Off (PTO) or Flexible Time Off (FTO), Tuition Reimbursement and Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Employees regularly scheduled to work less than 20 hours, Casual, Intern, and Temporary employees are only eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan. Employees who are regularly scheduled to work a 7 on/7 off schedule are eligible to receive all the foregoing benefits except PTO or FTO. For more detailed information, please click here.
Labcorp is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer:
Labcorp strives for inclusion and belonging in the workforce and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. We make employment decisions based on the needs of our business and the qualifications and merit of the individual. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), family or parental status, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, personal appearance, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic. Additionally, all qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable law.
We encourage all to apply
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