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Drug Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atomic

Drug CMC Lead

$150K - $215K/yr

We are seeking a versatile and experienced CMC Lead to lead our drug development and manufacturing. Position Overview: Reporting to the CEO, you will own and execute the Chemistry, Manufacturing ...

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Drug Development information

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$33K

$77.4K

$133K

How much do drug development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug development in the United States is $77,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $90,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does drug development make?

Drug development professionals, including roles such as research scientists and project managers, typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while senior roles or specialized positions can earn higher salaries, especially in biotech hubs or with advanced certifications.

Is drug discovery a good career?

Drug discovery is a vital part of drug development, involving identifying potential new medications through research and laboratory work. It requires strong scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and often collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. The field offers opportunities for innovation and growth, but can also involve long hours and high-pressure environments.

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 degree do you need to get into drug development?

Drug development professionals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as chemistry, biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or related disciplines. Advanced roles often require a master's or doctoral degree, along with laboratory skills and knowledge of regulatory processes.

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.
More about Drug Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Drug Development jobs? Cities with the most Drug Development job openings:
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Drug Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,438 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
VP of AI-Driven Drug Development Platform (New York)

VP of AI-Driven Drug Development Platform (New York)

Initial Therapeutics, Inc.

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$374K - $467K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

New

Job description

Initial Therapeutics, Inc. is looking for a Product Lead to drive product strategy across drug development. With over 10 years of experience in tech delivery and a background in biotech or pharma, you will lead cross-functional teams and design systems that meet critical needs. This role is pivotal in understanding regulatory constraints and leveraging AI for impactful solutions. The position is hybrid, based primarily in New York City, offering compensation between $374,000 and $467,000 alongside comprehensive benefits.
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