Reference Standard Owner

Reference Standard Owner | J&J Beerse | Pauwels Consulting

At Johnson & Johnson Beerse — one of the world's leading pharmaceutical innovators — a dedicated team manages reference standards for small molecule drug products. These standards are the backbone of analytical quality control: without them, no product leaves the site. You'll step into a role with real scientific ownership, working in a GMP environment where precision matters and your contribution is visible from day one.

Your Role

As a Reference Standard Owner, you are responsible for the full lifecycle management of assigned reference standards. You ensure that qualification and requalification activities are executed on time, in compliance with GMP requirements and according to the highest quality standards. You act as a key coordinator between analytical laboratories, quality stakeholders and project teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and manage the qualification strategy for assigned reference standards. Set up protocols, coordinate analytical testing and certify materials on time.
• Issue Certificates of Analysis (CoA) and register them in the reference standard management system. Own the full documentation lifecycle.
• Assess requalification results and determine appropriate storage conditions and retest periods according to approved protocols.
• Bridge internal labs, external testing partners and quality stakeholders. Keep all parties aligned and timelines on track.
• Lead or contribute to deviation investigations. Document events in TrackWise and drive corrective actions.
• Contribute to process improvement projects. Proactively challenge the status quo in a team that values scientific excellence.

Your Profile

• Master's degree in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Biochemistry or a related scientific field
• Strong chromatography skills: LC, UPLC, GC, GC-headspace
• Wet chemistry knowledge: titrations and related techniques
• Spectrometry basics: LC-MS, GC-MS, NMR
• Analytical mindset with a sharp eye for detail and quality
• Strong sense of urgency and ability to prioritize under pressure
• Clear communicator — written and verbal, in English
• Structured, ownership-driven and genuinely quality-minded

Recent graduates are strongly encouraged to apply. This role is an ideal first step into pharmaceutical QA/analytics.

What We Offer

• Real scientific ownership from day one — you manage your own reference standards, with real accountability
• A world-class environment: learn from experienced analytical and quality professionals at one of pharma's global innovation hubs
• A clear growth path towards senior scientific or quality leadership roles within GMP
• Pauwels Consulting support throughout your assignment: we invest in your development, not just your placement

• Enjoy a competitive salary package with extra perks that recognize your talent.
• Advance your career with a clear growth path, coaching, and mentoring to support you.
• Thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment where you can truly make an impact.
• Work when and where you perform best, ensuring an optimal work-life balance.
• Choose a flexible transport solution, from a company car to a public transport subscription.
• Expand your network and enjoy unforgettable moments at exclusive events and afterworks.
• Grow your skills with external courses and our in-house Pauwels Academy.
• Work on exciting projects with industry leaders in Life Sciences, Engineering & Digital.
• Seize opportunities at every level, from a strong start to career acceleration and expert collaboration.