Clinical Operations Manager Jobs in California
Clinical Operations Manager jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in biotech and pharmaceutical companies, large academic medical centers, and health system networks, with openings at every level from junior coordinators stepping into management to senior directors overseeing multi-site trials. The biggest hiring centers are San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where employers like Kaiser Permanente, Genentech, and UCLA Health maintain deep, ongoing demand. The most sought-after specialties are clinical trial operations, care delivery optimization, and cross-functional program management within regulated research environments. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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At Gilead, we’re creating a healthier world for all people. For more than 35 years, we’ve tackled diseases such as HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19 and cancer – working relentlessly to develop therapies that help improve lives and to ensure access to these therapies across the globe. We continue to fight against the world’s biggest health challenges, and our mission requires collaboration, determination and a relentless drive to make a difference.
Every member of Gilead’s team plays a critical role in the discovery and development of life-changing scientific innovations. Our employees are our greatest asset as we work to achieve our bold ambitions, and we’re looking for the next wave of passionate and ambitious people ready to make a direct impact.
We believe every employee deserves a great leader. People Leaders are the cornerstone to the employee experience at Gilead and Kite. As a people leader now or in the future, you are the key driver in evolving our culture and creating an environment where every employee feels included, developed and empowered to fulfil their aspirations. Join Gilead and help create possible, together.
Job Description
Director, Clinical Operations – Oncology
We are seeking a strong, experienced Clinical Operations leader for a Director position within our Oncology Group. Clinical Operations is responsible for the worldwide execution of Phase I-IV clinical trials across all Gilead therapeutic areas and plays a key role in ensuring trials are conducted in accordance with applicable SOPs, company policies and regulatory guidelines. This work supports the timely delivery of high-quality clinical data for global registration and commercialization of Gilead’s products.
You will typically lead a large team of direct and indirect reports and be accountable for the operational strategy, financial oversight and successful execution of assigned Clinical Development Plans. You will represent Clinical Operations on internal and external strategy teams, such as Global Development Teams, and will oversee the execution of complex studies, multiple studies within a program, or multiple programs. You will also manage assigned program resources, lead Clinical Operations, cross-functional and/or country or regional organizational change initiatives, and may act as a business process owner or subject matter expert for complex Clinical Operations processes. You will demonstrate an innovative mindset by championing new ideas and incorporating best practices, external benchmarking and standardization across Clinical Operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provide Clinical Operations leadership and effective oversight of assigned Oncology personnel and programs, including tracking and managing deliverables and working cross-functionally with key stakeholders to optimize study-related processes and streamline timelines without compromising the quality of study deliverables.
Act as the Clinical Operations representative on Global Development Teams (GDTs)/Clinical Science Teams (CSTs), providing strategic operational input into Clinical Development Plans that significantly influences the direction and outcomes of product development strategies.
Establish and maintain strong collaboration and partnership with cross-functional colleagues globally to ensure timely, high-quality and within-budget delivery of programs. Keep stakeholders appropriately advised on project status and emerging issues.
Proactively identify emerging risks, issues and opportunities across programs before they become critical, applying robust analytical judgement to create clarity, frame options and translate insights into practical, outcome-oriented actions.
Demonstrate broad ownership beyond defined responsibilities by constructively challenging the status quo, taking initiative to address misalignment or emerging delivery risks, and acting with accountability for decisions, actions, and outcomes.
Apply an end-to-end understanding of study design, patient journey, operational delivery, vendor inputs, data collection and statistical considerations to identify and mitigate risks to endpoint quality and evaluability.
Provide effective CRO oversight by setting clear expectations, building productive partnerships that empower vendor expertise, addressing performance issues early and supporting on-time, on-budget, high-quality delivery.
Provide input into strategic and operational short- and long-range therapeutic area / functional area plans as appropriate, including supporting alignment and communications to other team members upon implementation.
Serve as a member of the Clinical Operations Oncology Senior Leaders Forum, providing key input into the leadership and management of the Clinical Operations Oncology team and driving department goals and initiatives to desired outcomes.
Lead and manage a team of direct and indirect reports. Hire, develop and retain diverse top talent on the team. Set clear goals for the team and individual direct reports. Coach direct reports on their performance, development and career interests. Play a lead role in developing other people leaders.
Lead development of resource plans for assigned programs to ensure optimal deployment and allocation of resources.
Ensure team’s work complies with established practices, policies and processes, and any regulatory or other requirements.
Initiate continuous improvement efforts, including identifying and applying best practices and driving standardization across teams and programs.
Play a lead role in Clinical Operations and cross-functional organizational initiatives to drive ongoing efficiencies and operational excellence.
May also serve as the Clinical Operations representative on vendor governance committees, corporate partnerships, due diligence and/or acquisition teams, providing critical input into and review of partnership agreements and documentation.
May lead development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and other procedures or documentation within Clinical Operations and/or cross-functionally.
REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum Education & Experience
BA / BS / RN with 12 or more years’ relevant clinical or related experience in life sciences. Or, MA / MS / PharmD / PhD with 10 or more years’ relevant clinical or related experience in life sciences.
Prior oncology clinical trials/operations experience in company-sponsored clinical trials
Multiple years’ experience leading high-complexity programs and/or cross-functional initiatives in clinical operations, including short- and long-range strategic planning, governance and oversight.
Experience developing RFPs and selection and management of CROs or other vendors.
Prior line management experience with proven effectiveness and success in hiring, managing and developing diverse top talent. Preferably multiple years’ experience managing other people leaders (with indirect reports).
Demonstrated ability to enable on-time, on-budget and high-quality portfolio delivery from CROs through effective expectation setting, oversight and partnership.
Demonstrated ability to build credibility and trust with senior leaders and cross-functional partners by adapting communication and influencing style to the audience and context, and by exercising sound judgement in escalation, conflict resolution and stakeholder engagement.
Knowledge & Other Requirements
Extensive experience in the delivery of registration-intent oncology clinical trial programs including understanding of oncology endpoints and approaches to ensure endpoint integrity.
Thorough understanding of pharmaceutical regulatory requirements and impact on development and execution of clinical trials, including knowledge of Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA), International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) governing the conduct of clinical studies.
Proven ability and experience to effectively execute clinical trials within designated program budgets and timelines. Strong financial acumen necessary for the development and management of clinical trial budgets.
Critical and creative thinker with demonstrated ability to operate effectively and independently in ambiguous and changing environments, balancing timely decision-making with appropriate evidence, reflection and stakeholder input.
Strong leadership presence and stakeholder management skills, with demonstrated ability to build credibility and trust with senior leaders and cross-functional partners, adapt communication and influencing style to the audience and context, lead without authority, resolve conflict constructively, and exercise sound judgement in escalation and stakeholder engagement.
Strong interpersonal skills and understanding of team dynamics.
Demonstrable abilities to effectively communicate project direction and status to varying organizational levels, including leadership teams, executives and steering committees.
Strong coaching capabilities to mentor and develop staff.
Demonstrated effectiveness in proactively managing change.
Strong track record in effectively conceiving and leading large-scale, complex change initiatives.
When needed, ability to travel nationally and internationally.
The salary range for this position is: $210,375.00 - $272,250.00. Gilead considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary. This position may also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, discretionary stock-based long-term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role), paid time off, and a benefits package. Benefits include company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans*.
For additional benefits information, visit:
https://www.gilead.com/careers/compensation-benefits-and-wellbeing
* Eligible employees may participate in benefit plans, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.
For jobs in the United States:
Gilead Sciences Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment comprised of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Employment decisions regarding recruitment and selection will be made without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex , age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, genetic information or characteristic, gender identity and expression, veteran status, or other non-job related characteristics or other prohibited grounds specified in applicable federal, state and local laws. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact ApplicantAccommodations@gilead.com for assistance.
For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please view the 'Know Your Rights' poster.
NOTICE: EMPLOYEE POLYGRAPH PROTECTION ACT
YOUR RIGHTS UNDER THE FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT
Gilead Sciences will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, (c) consistent with the legal duty to furnish information; or (d) otherwise protected by law.
Our environment respects individual differences and recognizes each employee as an integral member of our company. Our workforce reflects these values and celebrates the individuals who make up our growing team.
Gilead provides a work environment free of harassment and prohibited conduct. We promote and support individual differences and diversity of thoughts and opinion.
For Current Gilead Employees and Contractors:
Please apply via the Internal Career Opportunities portal in Workday.
At Gilead, we’re creating a healthier world for all people. For more than 35 years, we’ve tackled diseases such as HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19 and cancer – working relentlessly to develop therapies that help improve lives and to ensure access to these therapies across the globe. We continue to fight against the world’s biggest health challenges, and our mission requires collaboration, determination and a relentless drive to make a difference.
Every member of Gilead’s team plays a critical role in the discovery and development of life-changing scientific innovations. Our employees are our greatest asset as we work to achieve our bold ambitions, and we’re looking for the next wave of passionate and ambitious people ready to make a direct impact.
We believe every employee deserves a great leader. People Leaders are the cornerstone to the employee experience at Gilead and Kite. As a people leader now or in the future, you are the key driver in evolving our culture and creating an environment where every employee feels included, developed and empowered to fulfil their aspirations. Join Gilead and help create possible, together.
Job Description
Director, Clinical Operations – Oncology
We are seeking a strong, experienced Clinical Operations leader for a Director position within our Oncology Group. Clinical Operations is responsible for the worldwide execution of Phase I-IV clinical trials across all Gilead therapeutic areas and plays a key role in ensuring trials are conducted in accordance with applicable SOPs, company policies and regulatory guidelines. This work supports the timely delivery of high-quality clinical data for global registration and commercialization of Gilead’s products.
You will typically lead a large team of direct and indirect reports and be accountable for the operational strategy, financial oversight and successful execution of assigned Clinical Development Plans. You will represent Clinical Operations on internal and external strategy teams, such as Global Development Teams, and will oversee the execution of complex studies, multiple studies within a program, or multiple programs. You will also manage assigned program resources, lead Clinical Operations, cross-functional and/or country or regional organizational change initiatives, and may act as a business process owner or subject matter expert for complex Clinical Operations processes. You will demonstrate an innovative mindset by championing new ideas and incorporating best practices, external benchmarking and standardization across Clinical Operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provide Clinical Operations leadership and effective oversight of assigned Oncology personnel and programs, including tracking and managing deliverables and working cross-functionally with key stakeholders to optimize study-related processes and streamline timelines without compromising the quality of study deliverables.
Act as the Clinical Operations representative on Global Development Teams (GDTs)/Clinical Science Teams (CSTs), providing strategic operational input into Clinical Development Plans that significantly influences the direction and outcomes of product development strategies.
Establish and maintain strong collaboration and partnership with cross-functional colleagues globally to ensure timely, high-quality and within-budget delivery of programs. Keep stakeholders appropriately advised on project status and emerging issues.
Proactively identify emerging risks, issues and opportunities across programs before they become critical, applying robust analytical judgement to create clarity, frame options and translate insights into practical, outcome-oriented actions.
Demonstrate broad ownership beyond defined responsibilities by constructively challenging the status quo, taking initiative to address misalignment or emerging delivery risks, and acting with accountability for decisions, actions, and outcomes.
Apply an end-to-end understanding of study design, patient journey, operational delivery, vendor inputs, data collection and statistical considerations to identify and mitigate risks to endpoint quality and evaluability.
Provide effective CRO oversight by setting clear expectations, building productive partnerships that empower vendor expertise, addressing performance issues early and supporting on-time, on-budget, high-quality delivery.
Provide input into strategic and operational short- and long-range therapeutic area / functional area plans as appropriate, including supporting alignment and communications to other team members upon implementation.
Serve as a member of the Clinical Operations Oncology Senior Leaders Forum, providing key input into the leadership and management of the Clinical Operations Oncology team and driving department goals and initiatives to desired outcomes.
Lead and manage a team of direct and indirect reports. Hire, develop and retain diverse top talent on the team. Set clear goals for the team and individual direct reports. Coach direct reports on their performance, development and career interests. Play a lead role in developing other people leaders.
Lead development of resource plans for assigned programs to ensure optimal deployment and allocation of resources.
Ensure team’s work complies with established practices, policies and processes, and any regulatory or other requirements.
Initiate continuous improvement efforts, including identifying and applying best practices and driving standardization across teams and programs.
Play a lead role in Clinical Operations and cross-functional organizational initiatives to drive ongoing efficiencies and operational excellence.
May also serve as the Clinical Operations representative on vendor governance committees, corporate partnerships, due diligence and/or acquisition teams, providing critical input into and review of partnership agreements and documentation.
May lead development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and other procedures or documentation within Clinical Operations and/or cross-functionally.
REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum Education & Experience
BA / BS / RN with 12 or more years’ relevant clinical or related experience in life sciences. Or, MA / MS / PharmD / PhD with 10 or more years’ relevant clinical or related experience in life sciences.
Prior oncology clinical trials/operations experience in company-sponsored clinical trials
Multiple years’ experience leading high-complexity programs and/or cross-functional initiatives in clinical operations, including short- and long-range strategic planning, governance and oversight.
Experience developing RFPs and selection and management of CROs or other vendors.
Prior line management experience with proven effectiveness and success in hiring, managing and developing diverse top talent. Preferably multiple years’ experience managing other people leaders (with indirect reports).
Demonstrated ability to enable on-time, on-budget and high-quality portfolio delivery from CROs through effective expectation setting, oversight and partnership.
Demonstrated ability to build credibility and trust with senior leaders and cross-functional partners by adapting communication and influencing style to the audience and context, and by exercising sound judgement in escalation, conflict resolution and stakeholder engagement.
Knowledge & Other Requirements
Extensive experience in the delivery of registration-intent oncology clinical trial programs including understanding of oncology endpoints and approaches to ensure endpoint integrity.
Thorough understanding of pharmaceutical regulatory requirements and impact on development and execution of clinical trials, including knowledge of Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA), International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) governing the conduct of clinical studies.
Proven ability and experience to effectively execute clinical trials within designated program budgets and timelines. Strong financial acumen necessary for the development and management of clinical trial budgets.
Critical and creative thinker with demonstrated ability to operate effectively and independently in ambiguous and changing environments, balancing timely decision-making with appropriate evidence, reflection and stakeholder input.
Strong leadership presence and stakeholder management skills, with demonstrated ability to build credibility and trust with senior leaders and cross-functional partners, adapt communication and influencing style to the audience and context, lead without authority, resolve conflict constructively, and exercise sound judgement in escalation and stakeholder engagement.
Strong interpersonal skills and understanding of team dynamics.
Demonstrable abilities to effectively communicate project direction and status to varying organizational levels, including leadership teams, executives and steering committees.
Strong coaching capabilities to mentor and develop staff.
Demonstrated effectiveness in proactively managing change.
Strong track record in effectively conceiving and leading large-scale, complex change initiatives.
When needed, ability to travel nationally and internationally.
The salary range for this position is: $210,375.00 - $272,250.00. Gilead considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary. This position may also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, discretionary stock-based long-term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role), paid time off, and a benefits package. Benefits include company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans*.
For additional benefits information, visit:
https://www.gilead.com/careers/compensation-benefits-and-wellbeing
* Eligible employees may participate in benefit plans, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.
For jobs in the United States:
Gilead Sciences Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment comprised of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Employment decisions regarding recruitment and selection will be made without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex , age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, genetic information or characteristic, gender identity and expression, veteran status, or other non-job related characteristics or other prohibited grounds specified in applicable federal, state and local laws. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact ApplicantAccommodations@gilead.com for assistance.
For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please view the 'Know Your Rights' poster.
NOTICE: EMPLOYEE POLYGRAPH PROTECTION ACT
YOUR RIGHTS UNDER THE FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT
Gilead Sciences will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, (c) consistent with the legal duty to furnish information; or (d) otherwise protected by law.
Our environment respects individual differences and recognizes each employee as an integral member of our company. Our workforce reflects these values and celebrates the individuals who make up our growing team.
Gilead provides a work environment free of harassment and prohibited conduct. We promote and support individual differences and diversity of thoughts and opinion.
For Current Gilead Employees and Contractors:
Please apply via the Internal Career Opportunities portal in Workday.
See All 100 Clinical Operations Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsClinical Operations Manager Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Clinical Operations Manager Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals13
- Healthcare & Medical Services3
- Education2
- Science & Research1
- Electronics & Hardware1
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in clinical operations manager jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in life sciences, health administration, or a related clinical field
- Minimum three to five years of clinical operations or clinical project management experience
- Demonstrated experience managing cross-functional teams across clinical or research settings
- Familiarity with FDA regulations, GCP guidelines, and California-specific healthcare compliance requirements
- Proficiency with clinical trial management systems or electronic health record platforms
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for stakeholder reporting and regulatory documentation
Clinical Operations Manager Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a clinical operations manager in California?
Most clinical operations managers in California build toward the role through a combination of a bachelor's degree in a health sciences or business field and several years in clinical coordination, project management, or research operations. A master's in health administration or public health strengthens candidacy at larger systems and biotech firms. While California does not require a state-issued license specific to this management title, roles embedded in clinical research often expect ICH-GCP training and familiarity with California Department of Public Health regulations governing research sites.
Which companies hire clinical operations managers in California?
Employers hiring clinical operations managers in California right now include Revolution Medicines, Maze Therapeutics, and Gilead Sciences, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. California's concentration of integrated health systems and biotech headquarters means demand is spread across both patient-care operations and sponsor-side clinical development.
Which California cities have the most clinical operations manager jobs?
San Diego, Redwood City, and Los Angeles have the most clinical operations manager openings in California. The Bay Area and San Diego lead because of their dense biotech and pharmaceutical headquarters, while Los Angeles draws volume from large academic medical centers and health system networks like Cedars-Sinai and UCLA Health that run complex multi-site clinical programs.
Are there remote clinical operations manager jobs in California?
Yes, and more than most healthcare roles. About 55% of clinical operations manager openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting the coordination-heavy nature of the work. The functions most commonly done remotely are trial oversight, vendor management, protocol development, and cross-site reporting, while roles with direct site monitoring or staff supervision responsibilities typically require on-site presence.
How can I get hired as a clinical operations manager in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is transitioning from a clinical coordinator, research associate, or project coordinator role at a California hospital system or biotech sponsor. Large California employers including Kaiser Permanente and UCSF Health run structured clinical operations rotational or associate programs that develop candidates without formal management backgrounds. Building ICH-GCP certification and experience with a clinical trial management system, even in a coordinator capacity, is the credential combination that most directly opens the door to a first operations manager title.
Where can I find and apply to clinical operations manager jobs in California?
You can find and apply to clinical operations manager jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings updated regularly. Search the listings for roles that match your background, experience level, and preferred location within the state, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 100 Clinical Operations Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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