Head of Design & Development & Construction

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design & Development & Construction

Company: Gilbert Pharmaceuticals

Location: United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations - Facilities & Construction Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-16

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end process of launching new compounding pharmacies nationally, from initial site selection to final licensure and go-live.

• Bridge pharmaceutical operations expertise with construction, facilities engineering, and regulatory compliance to ensure seamless facility development.

• Manage all aspects of physical pharmacy environments, including traditional 503A compounding pharmacies and FDA-registered 503B outsourcing facilities, adhering to cGMP Standards.

• Drive strategic site acquisition, entitlement processes, and detailed facility design to support efficient and compliant pharmacy operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for Gilbert Pharmaceuticals' expansion into new markets, requiring a blend of deep operational understanding of pharmacy regulations (USP <795>, <797>, <800>, cGMP) and robust project management skills in design and construction. The "AI-first" company culture suggests a need for candidates comfortable leveraging AI tools for research, planning, and execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead comprehensive market analysis and strategic site selection to identify optimal locations for new pharmacy facilities nationwide.

• Conduct thorough feasibility assessments and due diligence on prospective sites, evaluating regulatory compliance, build-out complexity, and operational suitability.

• Develop and execute a robust entitlement strategy for new pharmacy locations in close coordination with legal and operations teams.

• Serve as the primary liaison between landlords, brokers, and internal stakeholders for site acquisition and lease negotiations.

• Manage the architectural design and space planning for all new pharmacy facilities, ensuring alignment with USP <795>, <797>, <800>, and cGMP requirements.

• Lead the selection and coordination of design teams, including architects, MEP engineers, and specialty consultants, ensuring adherence to facility design standards.

• Oversee the General Contractor (GC) selection processes, prioritizing candidates with proven experience in pharmacy build-outs and a strong compliance track record.

• Act as the Owner's representative throughout the construction phase, maintaining strict accountability for design intent, budget adherence, and schedule management.

• Conduct rigorous field oversight through regular site inspections and quality walkthroughs to ensure all regulatory and operational standards are met.

• Drive operational readiness in partnership with pharmacy operations and quality teams, ensuring facilities are inspection-ready and compliant for licensure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a full project lifecycle ownership for facility development. The emphasis on USP standards and cGMP for both 503A and 503B facilities indicates a high level of regulatory complexity and a need for specialized knowledge in pharmaceutical facility design and construction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, or Chemical), Pharmacy, or a closely related field; an advanced degree or professional licensure is strongly preferred.

Experience: 5+ years of demonstrated experience in designing, building, or commissioning pharmacy facilities, healthcare environments, or regulated laboratory/cleanroom spaces.

Required Skills:

• Deep understanding and ability to apply USP <795>, USP <797>, USP <800>, and applicable state Board of Pharmacy facility requirements.

• Proven project management experience overseeing complex construction projects from initial design through final commissioning.

• Demonstrated experience interfacing effectively with regulatory agencies for facility approvals and inspections.

• Proficiency in interpreting and utilizing architectural drawings, construction documents, and facility engineering specifications.

• Strong ability to develop and manage project budgets, including value engineering and cost control measures.

• Excellent vendor management skills, with experience working effectively with contractors, engineers, and equipment suppliers.

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities, particularly in navigating unique construction and regulatory challenges.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. Preferred Skills:

• Licensed Architect (AIA), Professional Engineer (PE), or Certified Pharmaceutical Industry Professional (CPIP).

• Experience designing or supporting sterile manufacturing or 503B outsourcing facilities operating under cGMP environments.

• Familiarity with digital health or telehealth-linked pharmacy models and their facility implications.

• Experience with master planning and managing environmental compliance obligations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level and specific knowledge of USP standards and cGMP are critical. Preferred qualifications like licensure and experience with 503B facilities signal a desire for candidates who can hit the ground running with minimal ramp-up time, especially concerning sterile manufacturing environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 successfully delivered 503A pharmacy facilities, detailing the project scope, timeline, budget, and regulatory approvals.

• Include a case study for at least one 503B pharmacy facility, highlighting adherence to cGMP, sterile manufacturing design elements, and successful licensure.

• Present examples of developed facility design standards and a reusable build-out playbook for new sites, demonstrating scalability and efficiency.

• Documented budgets for existing and prospective sites, including cost-saving suggestions and strategies for national scaling.

• Examples of site selection analyses and feasibility assessments, illustrating the due diligence process and decision-making criteria. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing streamlined project flows to maximize efficiency and minimize completion time for facility development.

• Documentation of facility compliance playbooks for new site design and existing facility modifications, reflecting a proactive approach to regulatory adherence.

• Examples of risk mitigation plans developed for multi-site development projects, demonstrating foresight and proactive management.

• Records of successful coordination with regulatory bodies for facility inspections and approvals, showcasing effective stakeholder engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirements are geared towards demonstrating tangible project execution and regulatory expertise. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies that quantify project success in terms of time, budget, and regulatory compliance, with a specific focus on pharmaceutical facility build-outs.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: An estimated range for this senior-level role in the United States, considering the specialized nature of pharmaceutical construction and regulatory compliance, would typically fall between $170,000 - $250,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Head of Construction/Development roles in regulated industries, adjusted for the specific requirements of USP and cGMP compliance, and the fully remote nature of the position.

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary, equity, and bonus structure.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Generous paid time off and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

• 401(k) plan with company match.

• Support for remote work setup and ongoing professional development.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate project timelines, site visits (as needed, though role is remote), and critical regulatory deadlines. The AI-first approach may allow for adaptable work schedules as long as core responsibilities and project milestones are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on the seniority of the role, the specialized industry knowledge required (pharmaceutical construction, cGMP, USP standards), and the fully remote work arrangement in the United States. The AI-generated benefits list is expanded to include typical offerings for senior roles and remote positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Pharmaceuticals (Compounding and Outsourcing Facilities)

Company Size: Likely a growing mid-sized company given the need for a dedicated Head of Design, Development & Construction and the focus on national expansion.

Founded: Gilbert Pharmaceuticals is a company focused on improving healthcare delivery through advanced pharmacy models, including 503A compounding and 503B outsourcing. Their "AI-first" approach signifies a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for operational efficiency and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Head of Design, Development & Construction reports to the Director of Pharmacy Development & Operations.

• This role will likely collaborate closely with internal operations, quality assurance, legal, and potentially finance teams.

• External collaboration will involve architects, engineers, contractors, landlords, brokers, and regulatory bodies. Methodology:

• AI-First Approach: Work begins with AI to clarify intent and context, then moves to tools for execution, user testing, and continuous refinement. AI and self-serve research are integral to daily workflows.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data and research to inform site selection, design, budgeting, and project management.

• Agile Development: While not explicitly stated, the iterative AI-driven process suggests an agile mindset for project execution and continuous improvement.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong emphasis on working with diverse internal and external teams to achieve project goals.

Company Website: https://jobs.workable.com/company/vYUSAzoNTvkaUPqifsJDef/jobs-at-gilbert-pharmaceuticals

📝 Enhancement Note: The "AI-first" culture is a key differentiator. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would integrate AI tools into their design, development, and construction workflows, and how they view AI as a collaborator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, acting as the subject matter expert and primary driver for all new pharmacy facility development. It requires a blend of strategic oversight and tactical execution.

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Director of Pharmacy Development & Operations, indicating a significant level of autonomy and responsibility within a critical growth function.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the company's ability to scale its operations nationally. Successful facility launches are crucial for revenue generation, market penetration, and the company's overall mission to improve healthcare delivery. Efficiently designed and built facilities also contribute to operational excellence and cost management.

Growth Opportunities:

• Strategic Leadership: Opportunity to shape the national footprint and operational infrastructure of a growing pharmaceutical company.

• Process Optimization: Lead the development and refinement of standardized processes for pharmacy design, construction, and regulatory approval, creating a repeatable model for national expansion.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in pharmaceutical facility design, cGMP environments, and advanced construction methodologies.

• Cross-Functional Influence: Build strong relationships and influence across various departments, potentially leading to broader leadership roles in operations or development.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior team members or external partners involved in facility development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant career growth potential, moving beyond traditional construction management to encompass strategic development and operational integration within a highly regulated industry. The AI-first environment also presents opportunities to pioneer new ways of working in facility development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Fully Remote. This role operates without a central physical office, allowing for talent acquisition across the United States.

Office Location(s): Not applicable as the role is fully remote. However, travel to various pharmacy sites nationwide will be required for construction oversight, inspections, and go-live support.

Workspace Context:

• Autonomy & Flexibility: As a remote role, candidates will have significant autonomy over their work environment and schedule, provided project milestones are met.

• Technology Integration: Reliance on digital collaboration tools, project management software, and AI platforms for communication, planning, and execution.

• Collaborative Hubs: While remote, expect active participation in virtual team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional discussions. The company culture emphasizes treating AI as a collaborator, suggesting a high degree of digital interaction.

Work Schedule: While the standard is approximately 40 hours per week, the remote nature and critical project demands may require flexibility. The focus is on results and meeting project timelines, rather than strict adherence to a 9-to-5 schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The fully remote aspect requires strong self-discipline and excellent virtual communication skills. Candidates should be comfortable managing their own workspace and leveraging technology to stay connected and productive. The need for travel indicates a hybrid approach to remote work, blending home-based work with on-site project engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio focusing on relevant experience in pharmacy/healthcare facility design, construction, and regulatory compliance.

• AI-Assisted Assessment: Potential use of AI tools to screen applications or conduct initial interviews, assessing communication clarity and alignment with the "AI-first" culture.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion of experience with USP standards, cGMP, project management methodologies, budget control, and site selection strategies. Expect scenario-based questions related to complex construction challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session to present key projects from your portfolio, demonstrating your ability to manage end-to-end facility development, solve problems, and achieve regulatory compliance. This will likely involve discussing specific case studies.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of empathy, self-awareness, positive attitude, collaborative spirit, and comfort working in a small, adaptable team that embraces AI as a collaborator.

• Final Round: Discussion with senior leadership (Director of Pharmacy Development & Operations and potentially others) to finalize fit and discuss compensation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, provide specific metrics related to budget adherence, schedule completion, regulatory approvals, and operational improvements achieved.

• Highlight Regulatory Expertise: Clearly showcase your experience with USP <795>, <797>, <800>, and cGMP. Detail how you ensured compliance throughout the design and construction phases.

• Demonstrate AI Integration: If possible, describe how you've used technology or data analytics in past projects. For this role, articulate how you envision integrating AI into facility development workflows.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (503A, 503B, lab spaces) or by project phase (site selection, design, construction, commissioning).

• Tell a Story: For each case study, explain the challenge, your approach, the solutions implemented, and the successful outcome, emphasizing your role and contributions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Mock Presentations: Practice presenting your portfolio and answering technical questions concisely and effectively.

• Regulatory Scenarios: Prepare for questions about navigating specific regulatory hurdles or resolving compliance issues during a build-out.

• AI Collaboration Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would leverage AI for tasks like site analysis, design optimization, or risk assessment in construction projects.

• Budget & Schedule Management: Anticipate questions about managing multi-million dollar budgets and complex, concurrent project timelines across multiple states.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on both technical expertise and cultural alignment with the company's AI-first philosophy. The portfolio presentation is a critical component, requiring candidates to articulate their past successes with data and strategic insights.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with tools like Asana, Monday.com, Jira, or similar platforms for task management, timeline tracking, and team collaboration.

• Design & Drafting Software: Familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, or similar BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for reviewing architectural drawings and construction documents.

• Budgeting & Financial Tools: Experience with cost estimation software, spreadsheets (Excel/Google Sheets), and financial tracking systems.

• AI Collaboration Platforms: Openness to and experience with AI-driven research tools, LLMs (Large Language Models), and AI-powered project management or analysis applications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from site feasibility studies, construction reports, and operational performance metrics. Familiarity with tools like Tableau or Power BI for visualization is a plus.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for financial modeling, data analysis, and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly managing customer relationships, understanding how facility development impacts CRM data and operational workflows is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with process mapping and identifying opportunities for automation in design, permitting, or construction oversight, potentially leveraging AI tools.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with cloud-based document repositories for managing blueprints, contracts, and regulatory documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "AI-first" means candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with or willingness to adopt AI tools for various aspects of the role, from research and planning to communication and analysis. Specific knowledge of construction-related software is expected, but adaptability to new technologies is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Ownership & Accountability: Taking full responsibility for the end-to-end facility development process, from concept to licensure.

• AI as a Collaborator: Embracing AI tools as integral partners in research, planning, problem-solving, and execution.

• Data-Driven Excellence: Prioritizing data and analytical insights to inform all decisions, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to refining processes, optimizing designs, and learning from each project to enhance future outcomes.

• User-Centric Design: Designing facilities that are not only compliant but also highly functional and efficient for pharmacy operations and patient care.

• Positive & Collaborative: Maintaining a low-ego, empathetic, and positive attitude, fostering strong working relationships across diverse teams.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with pharmacy operations, quality assurance, legal, and other departments to ensure alignment and successful project outcomes.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining clear, consistent, and transparent communication with all stakeholders, including internal teams, external partners, and regulatory bodies.

• Feedback Loops: Encouraging and utilizing feedback from all levels and disciplines to refine designs and processes, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

• AI-Enhanced Collaboration: Utilizing AI to facilitate communication, summarize discussions, and identify key action items, enhancing overall team efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is heavily influenced by its "AI-first" philosophy and a focus on innovation in healthcare. Candidates should demonstrate how their personal values align with these principles, particularly their willingness to integrate AI and their drive for continuous improvement in a collaborative environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Diverse Regulatory Landscapes: Managing varying state and federal regulations for pharmacy facilities across national sites.

• Balancing Cost, Schedule, and Compliance: Optimizing construction budgets and timelines without compromising stringent regulatory and operational standards.

• Integrating AI Effectively: Successfully incorporating AI tools into established design and construction workflows and convincing stakeholders of their value.

• Managing Remote Oversight: Effectively overseeing construction projects across multiple geographic locations without constant on-site presence.

• Scaling Rapidly: Meeting aggressive timelines for national expansion while maintaining high quality and compliance standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced cGMP & 503B Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in the specialized requirements of outsourcing facilities.

• AI in Construction & Design: Access to training and resources on leveraging AI for architectural design, project management, and predictive analytics in construction.

• Leadership Development: Potential for formal leadership training and mentorship programs within a growing organization.

• Industry Conferences: Participation in relevant pharmaceutical, healthcare construction, and technology conferences to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends.

• Cross-Functional Skill Development: Gaining broader experience in pharmacy operations, quality assurance, and strategic development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they approach challenges, particularly those related to regulatory complexity and AI integration. The growth opportunities highlight the company's investment in employee development and the potential for significant career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you leverage AI tools to identify and evaluate potential sites for new compounding pharmacies nationally?"

• "Describe your process for developing and implementing facility design standards for both 503A and 503B pharmacies, ensuring compliance with USP and cGMP."

• "Walk us through a complex construction project you managed from design through commissioning. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them, particularly regarding budget and schedule?"

• "How do you ensure effective owner's representation and quality control during construction when operating remotely?"

• "What strategies would you employ to streamline the permitting and regulatory approval process across multiple states?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What does an 'AI-first' approach mean to you in the context of design and construction management?"

• "How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including landlords, contractors, and regulatory bodies?"

• "Describe a time you had to wear multiple hats or take on a project outside your direct expertise. How did you approach it?"

• "How do you foster a positive, collaborative, and low-ego team environment, especially in a remote setting?"

• "What are your thoughts on the current role of AI in the pharmaceutical or construction industries?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an executive summary of your experience, then dive into 2-3 key case studies. For each case study:

  • Project Overview: Site, type (503A/503B), scope, budget, timeline.
  • Challenge: Specific problems encountered (regulatory, design, construction, budget, schedule).
  • Solution: Your strategic approach and tactical execution, highlighting any innovative methods or AI integration.
  • Outcome: Quantifiable results (on-time, on-budget delivery, successful licensure, operational efficiencies gained).

• Metrics: Be ready to discuss specific metrics related to cost savings, schedule adherence, compliance rates, and ROI where applicable.

• Visuals: Use clear, concise visuals (diagrams, photos, charts) to illustrate your points, but avoid overwhelming slides.

• AI Integration: If possible, illustrate how AI or advanced technology was used to solve problems or improve outcomes in your presented projects.

• Conciseness: Aim for a 15-20 minute presentation, leaving ample time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your experience with AI tools and how you envision integrating them into the role. Be ready to present detailed case studies that highlight your expertise in pharmaceutical facility development, regulatory compliance, and project management.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and achievements related to pharmacy facility design, construction management, USP <795>, <797>, <800>, cGMP, site selection, budgeting, and regulatory compliance. Quantify your accomplishments with numbers and data.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies that best represent your experience in designing and building regulated facilities. Focus on demonstrating your ability to manage projects from inception to completion, ensuring compliance and efficiency. Be ready to discuss how you would leverage AI in these processes.

• Research Gilbert Pharmaceuticals: Understand their mission, their "AI-first" approach, and their goals for expanding compounding pharmacy services. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate cultural fit.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and answering potential interview questions, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and impact. Practice articulating your experience with AI integration and regulatory expertise.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.