Over the past few years, Arizona’s Life Science Market has grown immensely. Major corporations like Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca have come to call “The Grand Canyon State” their home employing thousands of people and contributing millions to the local economy. Whether you have education and experience in biochemistry, chemical engineering, neurobiology, physiology, microbiology, plant science, computer science, or business administration, you should have no problem finding gainful employment.
Job Search Tips
With so many biotechnology companies in Arizona, how do you know which one is the best fit for you? Before answering this question, here are a few factors to keep in mind.
Location – You want to work for a company located near your home, or that has remote work options
Salary – Working in a field to save the lives of others is noble. However, you must be able to sustain a decent living. Use salary trends and your everyday expenses to determine how much you need to make to live comfortably.
Benefits – Besides a paycheck, employees also need fringe benefits to sustain a decent quality of life. As you review positions, check whether they offer health insurance, life insurance, retirement funds, stock options, tuition reimbursement, and other perks.
Company Culture – You want to work for a company that cultivates a positive employee culture. Do they provide a safe and decent environment? Does leadership work to create strong teams? Are there services to support employee development, work-life balance, and mental health?
Safety – No matter how great a company may appear, it’s probably not worth considering if it’s not safe. Do they use the most advanced devices, equipment, and supplies? Does management provide adequate training to keep employees safe, including lab symbols and meanings? How often do accidents occur? More importantly, what measures does the company take to prevent and resolve accidents in the workplace?
Prominent Biotech Companies In Arizona
Now that you better understand what to look for in a company, here is a list of some of the most prominent biotech companies to work for in Arizona.
Celgene Corporation
Celgene Corporation is located in Phoenix, AZ, with 5,000 to 10,000 employees. The company focuses on the development of treatments for bone marrow cancer. It’s an excellent place for applicants with experience in biochemistry, clinical research, and product development. Celgene Corporation gets high rankings for its healthcare packages, employee referral programs, relocation assistance, paid time off, and employee development.
Agilent Technologies
Agilent Technologies has facilities in Tucson, AZ, and other worldwide locations. The biotechnology company develops instruments, software, and services for the food, pharmaceutical, energy, and laboratory industries. Agilent Technologies offers excellent retirement plans, remote work opportunities, educational assistance, and tuition reimbursement.
Genentech
Another Tucson, AZ biotechnology company is Genentech. Their core purpose is to develop pharmaceuticals to help treat life-threatening diseases and conditions. Job seekers with a background in science, business, technology, finance, sales, and customer service may find this an ideal place of employment. Genentech’s employees appreciate the company’s onsite childcare services, wellness programs, health insurance packages, and family support services.
Takeda Pharmaceuticals
This Tokyo-based pharmaceutical company has facilities worldwide, including Phoenix, AZ. They specialize in researching and developing treatments for oncology, gastroenterology, and neuroscience. More than 10,000 employees with experience in fields ranging from science and technology to business and public relations have found Takeda Pharmaceuticals a great place to work. If hired, you’ll enjoy 401K with employer matching options, professional development, disability, sick leave insurance, and tuition assistance.
Pinnacle Transplant Technologies
Last but not least on the list of biotechnology companies in AZ is Pinnacle Transplant Technologies. They have facilities in Phoenix and presently have about 50 to 200 employees. While it may appear small, the company has significantly contributed to developing allograft tissue for transplants. Pinnacle Transplant Technologies takes care of its employees by offering comprehensive healthcare packages, profit-sharing opportunities, 401K plans, paid holidays, and time off.
A Final Point: Employee Satisfaction
While each biotechnology and pharmaceutical company appears to be an excellent workplace, you must do your due diligence. Beyond reviewing their websites, applicants should also search for employee reviews. Are the employees satisfied with their employer? What are their likes and dislikes? Most people aren’t shy about voicing their opinions on the places they work. They can give you a firsthand account of what it would be like on a typical day in the office or laboratory. If you find that there are more negative reviews than positive, you may want to reconsider putting in an application.
There is an increasing demand for Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies to help improve patients’ well-being, diagnosis, and treatment worldwide. The firms in Arizona are some of the most prolific in these industries helping to transform healthcare for medical professionals and their patients. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in this sector, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of job opportunities at your disposal. As you evaluate your options, remember to keep factors like location, salary, benefits, safety, company culture, and employee satisfaction in mind to make the best decision.
