Overview
R&D Project Manager Jobs in Pleasanton, CA at The Fountain Group
Details for the position are as follows:
- 1 year contract to start with the strong possibility of extension or conversion depending on performance and business needs.
- Rate: 42-62 an hour
- Location: Pleasanton, CA – Hybrid
Job Description:
This organization is a leader in the In-Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) space, with Research & Early Development driving early-stage discovery and innovation. The Innovation Project Manager operates at the intersection of science, strategy, and execution—guiding research processes in ambiguous environments while aligning innovation efforts to long-term business goals. This role also serves as a key ambassador, translating complex scientific concepts into clear value for cross-functional stakeholders.
Key Capabilities:
- Influence without authority: Drive alignment and execution across functions and levels
- Systems thinking: Navigate interdependencies across scientific, medical, and business domains
- Resilient execution: Combine project rigor with adaptability to deliver in dynamic environments
Core Responsibilities:
- Support enterprise research by sourcing, assessing, prioritizing, and advancing early-stage innovation ideas
- Act as a neutral thought partner to evaluate feasibility, value, and strategic alignment
- Design and lead innovation challenges tied to global research priorities
- Foster a cross-functional innovation mindset and act as a change agent across the organization
- Plan, manage, and optimize research operations, including processes, communication, and infrastructure
- Apply and adapt project management and communication frameworks for flexible R&D environments
- Build and maintain scientific networks; stay current on industry trends and emerging technologies
- Facilitate interdisciplinary workshops using agile and creative methodologies to drive ideation and problem discovery
- Collaborate across R&D, Clinical, Medical Affairs, and Partnering functions
- Monitor and improve processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and scalability
- Coach team members on innovation practices; provide feedback and support development
- Contribute to internal initiatives, events, publications, and conferences as needed
Required Skills:
- You are trained as a scientist (biologist, biochemist, chemist, physicist or a similar degree), ideally with a doctorate and at least 1 year of experience in the life science industry OR a Masters with at least 3-5 years experience in the life science industry.
- You possess profound Project Management skills, centered around communication and connection (methodologies, tools, mindsets).
- Experience managing DANCE (dynamic, ambiguous, non-linear, complex and emergent) projects especially in the research space preferred.
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Title: R&D Project Manager
Company: The Fountain Group
Location: Pleasanton, CA
Category:
