The START Center for Cancer Research ("START") stands as the world's largest early phase site network exclusively dedicated to oncology clinical research. Throughout our history, we've provided hope to cancer patients in community practices globally by offering access to cutting-edge trials across the US and Europe. With over 1,300 completed studies and research facilities in the United States, Spain, Portugal, and Ireland, START's mission is to accelerate the development of new anticancer drugs that improve quality of life and survival for patients with cancer—ultimately leading to its cure. Our impact is undeniable: over 45 therapies conducted at START locations have obtained FDA/EMA approval. 

Join Our Mission as Director, Investigational Drug Section (IDS) in Los Angeles, CA!

Are you ready to transform cancer care at the forefront of clinical innovation? We're seeking a visionary and experienced Director, Investigational Drug Section (IDS) to lead our pharmacy operations at our new Los Angeles, CA location! In this pivotal leadership role, you'll champion our pharmacy operations while ensuring rigorous compliance with regulations and internal SOPs. This career-defining opportunity combines strategic leadership—developing pharmacy staff and optimizing daily operations—with hands-on clinical expertise that directly impacts groundbreaking cancer research and patient outcomes. Join us in pioneering tomorrow's cancer treatments today. You’ll be at the forefront of a new chapter for START — shaping the culture, systems, and success of our Los Angeles site from the ground up.

The annual base salary for this role is $180,000 - $200,000, depending on experience and skills. This role is also eligible for an annual bonus. Your compensation may vary based on your unique qualifications, experience, and market factors. 

How You'll Make an Impact

• Spearhead collaboration with nursing, study operations, and site leadership to deliver exceptional patient care, optimize workflows, and drive operational excellence across multidisciplinary teams
• Ensure impeccable regulatory compliance with federal guidelines and internal SOPs for the IDS space and pharmacy operations
• Apply your pharmaceutical expertise to verify medication orders with precision, confirming accurate dosages, patient eligibility, complete labs, signed consent, and absence of drug interactions
• Lead medication preparation and dispensing, mentoring pharmacy technicians and implementing comprehensive safety protocols prior to drug release
• Elevate pharmaceutical care through patient counseling, supportive care education, and providing expert drug information to the healthcare team
• Strategically manage drug inventory and documentation, including tracking usage, ordering, storage, and maintaining Phase I medication accountability
• Drive protocol review and EMR accuracy, analyzing protocol changes, maintaining investigational records, and ensuring precise medication orders and patient home medication documentation

Required Experience

• Degree from an ACPE accredited School of Pharmacy
• Current California State pharmacy license
• Proven hospital/clinic pharmacy experience with a passion for oncology
• Demonstrated expertise with sterile compounding requirements for chemotherapy agents, USP<797>, USP<800>, laminar airflow hood(s) / biological safety cabinet(s)
• Strong technical proficiency with Microsoft Office products, electronic medical record programs, pharmacy software, and study IRT systems
• Comprehensive knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) principles
• Sterile compounding & chemotherapy certification
• Intravenous sterile product training
• Experience in clinical trials and management of investigational drugs

Preferred Experience:

• Specialty residency in oncology and/or current BPS Board Certified Oncology Pharmacist (BCOP)
• Previous leadership experience in pharmacy settings

What We Offer: Best-in-Class Benefits and Perks

We recognize your expertise and commitment deserve exceptional support. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Complete health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family healthy
• Financial security: Robust 401(k) plan with generous employer matching to build your future
• Peace of mind: Life and disability insurance for financial protection
• Flexible financial planning: Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• Work-life harmony: Generous paid time off, flexible schedule options, and work arrangements tailored to your needs
• Career advancement: Ongoing education opportunities, mentorship, and clear pathways for growth

At START, your voice matters. We foster a collaborative, innovative environment where everyone contributes to our processes, decisions, planning, and culture. Your expertise will directly shape the future of cancer treatment.

Be Part of Something Extraordinary

This isn't just a job—it's a chance to make history in cancer care. As our Director of IDS, you'll ensure the safe and effective delivery of investigational drugs that become tomorrow's breakthrough treatments. Your expertise will directly translate into hope for patients fighting cancer. Every day, you'll know your work is helping write the next chapter in cancer treatment.

Join us in our mission to conquer cancer, one clinical trial at a time. Apply today to become part of our life-changing work.

We are an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.