Introduction
The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries are rapidly adopting artificial intelligence to accelerate research, improve patient outcomes, and modernize drug development processes. Pfizer is now expanding its AI-first research strategy by hiring a Director, Oncology AI Product & Engineering Lead for its Oncology R&D division.
This leadership role is designed for experienced AI professionals who can bridge the gap between advanced technology and scientific innovation. The position offers an opportunity to shape the future of oncology research by developing scalable AI solutions that support medicine discovery, clinical development, and real-world evidence programs.
Job Overview
| Job Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Director, Oncology AI Product & Engineering Lead |
| Company | Pfizer |
| Employment Type | Full-Time |
| Locations | New York City, La Jolla, Cambridge, Bothell |
| Industry | Pharmaceutical & Artificial Intelligence |
| Experience Level | Senior Leadership |
| Salary Range | $176,600 – $294,300 per year |
| Bonus Eligibility | 20% Performance Bonus |
| Visa Sponsorship | Not Available |
| Relocation Assistance | Available for eligible candidates |
About the Role
The Director, Oncology AI Product & Engineering Lead will oversee the development and implementation of AI-powered solutions within Pfizer’s Oncology Research & Development division. This position focuses on translating scientific and operational challenges into practical AI-driven products that improve research efficiency and decision-making.
The selected candidate will lead cross-functional engineering teams while collaborating with oncology scientists, clinical researchers, digital transformation leaders, and enterprise technology teams.
This role is ideal for professionals who possess strong technical knowledge, product management expertise, and experience working within regulated healthcare or biotech environments.
Key Responsibilities
Lead Oncology AI Strategy
The Director will define and execute the AI product roadmap across several critical research areas, including:
- Drug discovery
- Translational science
- Clinical development
- Real-world evidence analysis
- Research process automation
Manage Cross-Functional Teams
The role includes leadership responsibilities for multidisciplinary AI engineering teams. Responsibilities include:
- Team coaching and mentorship
- Delivery prioritization
- Technical direction
- Stakeholder collaboration
- Product lifecycle management
Drive AI Product Development
The successful candidate will transform complex scientific workflows into scalable AI products by:
- Defining product requirements
- Evaluating AI models and prototypes
- Tracking performance metrics
- Improving operational efficiency
- Supporting enterprise-wide AI adoption
Required Qualifications
Candidates applying for this position should possess advanced education and significant industry experience.
| Education Requirement | Experience Needed |
|---|---|
| PhD in AI, Computer Science, Data Science, or related field | Minimum 5 years |
| Master’s Degree in related discipline | Minimum 7 years |
Additional qualifications include:
- Experience leading AI-driven products or platforms
- Knowledge of oncology research workflows
- Strong understanding of AI and machine learning concepts
- Leadership experience in matrixed organizations
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Preferred Skills
Pfizer is particularly interested in candidates who have experience working at the intersection of:
- Science
- Product management
- Engineering leadership
- Healthcare technology
- AI innovation
Experience scaling AI products in regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals or biotechnology is considered highly valuable.
Salary and Benefits
The compensation package for this role is highly competitive and includes both salary and performance-based incentives.
| Compensation Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $176,600 – $294,300 annually |
| Performance Bonus | Up to 20% target bonus |
| Retirement Benefits | 401(k) with company contributions |
| Healthcare Coverage | Medical, dental, vision, prescription |
| Paid Leave | Vacation, parental leave, caregiver leave |
| Long-Term Incentives | Share-based programs |
Employees may also qualify for relocation assistance depending on business needs and eligibility.
Why This Role Stands Out
Opportunity to Shape AI in Oncology
This position offers a rare opportunity to influence how AI technologies are integrated into cancer research and drug development at a global pharmaceutical organization.
High-Level Strategic Leadership
Unlike purely technical engineering positions, this role combines:
- Scientific collaboration
- Product strategy
- AI governance
- Organizational transformation
- Innovation leadership
Strong Career Growth Potential
Professionals with expertise in AI and healthcare continue to be among the most in-demand talent across the global job market. Leadership roles such as this can open pathways into executive technology and digital transformation positions.
Work Authorization Requirements
Applicants must already be authorized to work in the United States. Pfizer has confirmed that employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position currently or in the future.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Pfizer Careers follows equal employment opportunity policies and complies with U.S. employment regulations. The company supports diversity, inclusion, and fair hiring practices across all departments.
Director Oncology AI Product & Engineering Lead – CLICK HERE
Final Thoughts
The Director, Oncology AI Product & Engineering Lead role at Pfizer represents a major opportunity for experienced AI leaders looking to make an impact in oncology research and pharmaceutical innovation.
With strong compensation, leadership responsibilities, and the chance to work on cutting-edge AI initiatives, this role is well-suited for professionals who want to combine technology expertise with meaningful healthcare advancement.