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Pfizer’s Rotational Programs offer college graduates the opportunity to progress through various rotations, which last for about 6-12 months each, for a total of 24 months. The program provides essential skill development and knowledge-sharing along the way.
The mission is to accelerate the individual’s development through immersive experiences within Pfizer and to find the best fit for the individual and the organization. These rotations provide essential skill development, while simultaneously building business acumen, strategic problem solving, and leadership skills.
Get an inside look from our current colleagues on their experiences:
Jamila McKenzie, Global Sterile Injectables Rotational, Kalamazoo, Mich.
What I Do: During my initial rotation, I served as a process engineer at Kalamazoo’s Vaccine Formulation Facility, focusing on drug product production, specifically mRNA vaccines. My responsibilities encompassed dispensing, prep, and facilities operations, yielding diverse tasks. Notably, I led a project to optimize costly input material usage, achieving huge cost cuts and savings in 2022.
Additionally, I facilitated troubleshooting and equipment upkeep for the Prep team, enhancing productivity. I also spearheaded safety enhancements in the facilities domain, refining procedures and training.
In my second rotation, as an API cleaning validation professional, I’ve contributed to vital cross contamination prevention efforts for fermentation operations. My tasks involve investigating cleaning deviations, updating documentation, and implementing CAPAs for improved efficiency. These rotations offer cross-functional insights and underscore the significance of patient-centric breakthroughs.
What Have You Learned About Yourself: I’ve discovered a passion for observing production, delving into scientific and strategic aspects, and resolving operational challenges to enhance output and teamwork. Our impressive product portfolio is incredible. Contributing to this excellence is fulfilling and meaningful to me.
What Advice Would You Give to Your Younger Self: All industries create environments that change almost constantly. The goal is not to necessarily to find the one job you want for the rest of your life. That job may not even exist in 10 years. The goal is to use your current skills to learn more, drive forward excellence, and create the culture you appreciate.
Lia Franco, R&D Rotational Associate, Groton, Conn.
What I Do: I am now in my third of four, six-month rotations within R&D. The possibilities are endless, but I have chosen to spend all three semesters working in Pharmaceutical Sciences Small Molecules (chemical vs. biological). In my first rotation, I worked as a formulation scientist in Drug Product Development, learning how the “recipe” for an oral drug is designed.
I then worked as a manufacturing engineer in Solid Dose Manufacturing, working on improving efficiency in small-scale batch production of oral dosage forms for early clinical trials. I am now part of a project management team in Global Materials Management, helping to innovate and advance the work of Inventory Management as they provide labs and developmental manufacturers with the necessary materials to support clinical supply.
What Have You Learned About Yourself: I have learned so much about myself and my work style throughout my year spent in the program so far. I’ve gotten a better idea of what kind of management style and team dynamic I want to look for in my future jobs. I’ve learned how to time manage and prioritize work. I’ve gained confidence in when and how to ask for clarification, guidance, assistance, and opportunities – especially at the start of a new role. I’m sure I’ve learned so much, and will continue to before my second year is over, but I hope this gives a sense of it!
What Advice Would You Give to Your Younger Self: I would challenge my younger self to be bold. It is much easier to learn from mistakes that were made thoughtfully than from timid accidents. Ask to participate in and shadow projects you find interesting, ask for clarification, admit to your limitations, and volunteer to learn new skills. You can’t gain experience without starting somewhere!
Julianna Najarro Sanchez, Digital Rotational Associate, NYC Headquarters
What I Do: Currently, I am in my first of four rotations. I am a data analyst/engineer on the Master Data Management team. I am learning about data management and assisting in creating more efficient ways of standardizing data. I also have the opportunity to learn more about AI and possible ways to integrate it with data management.
What Have You Learned About Yourself: I learned that I’m not going to be the best at everything and that that’s okay. I should look to learn and improve instead of getting discouraged because I’m not the best. Acceptance is key to doing better.
What Advice Would You Give to Your Younger Self: I would tell my younger self to join more programs and activities and to step out of my comfort zone. When I was younger, I would keep to myself and that limited my opportunities to grow individually, socially, and professionally. I’ve come to understand that it requires discomfort and exploring the unknown, so I would give that piece of advice to my younger self. I’d also tell my younger self that it’s okay to not know something and that it’s better to admit it than keep that to myself.
For more information on our Rotational Programs and any other Early Talent Opportunities,
please visit Opportunities for Early Careers
Applications for Pfizer’s Rotational Programs:
Digital – Applications open until September 25, 2023: Application Link
R&D – Applications open until September 22, 2023: Application Link
Pfizer Global Supply (PGS) – Applications open until October 5, 2023: Application Link
