Quality Assurance Specialist

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

Novartis is seeking a Quality Assurance Specialist in Malaysia to support pharmaceutical quality systems and ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice and applicable regulations. Typical responsibilities include reviewing and approving documentation, managing deviations, change controls and CAPA, supporting audits and inspections, investigating quality issues, and promoting continuous improvement. Candidates are generally expected to hold a degree in pharmacy, life sciences, chemistry, engineering, or a related discipline, with experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance. Knowledge of GMP, risk management, documentation practices, and quality systems is important. Strong analytical, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills, along with attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively, are expected.

About the employer

Novartis is a global medicines company headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, focused on discovering and developing innovative treatments for serious and complex diseases. Its major therapeutic areas include cardiovascular, renal and metabolic conditions, immunology, neuroscience, oncology, and hematology. The company combines scientific research, advanced technology, clinical development, and global commercial expertise to improve patient outcomes. Novartis operates in many countries, including Malaysia, where its teams support medicine access, commercial operations, medical affairs, regulatory activities, and quality and compliance functions. Employees typically work in a highly regulated, international environment that values integrity, patient focus, scientific excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Roles in quality assurance are important to ensuring that medicines are consistently manufactured, documented, stored, and distributed in accordance with strict internal and regulatory standards.

Working in Malaysia

Malaysia offers career opportunities in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, finance, shared services, and logistics. Kuala Lumpur and Selangor are the main corporate hubs, while Penang is known for life sciences, electronics, and manufacturing; Johor and Sabah also offer growing opportunities. Malaysian workplaces are generally multicultural, with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and international influences. English is widely used in professional settings, while Malay is the national language. Living costs vary, with Kuala Lumpur and Penang more expensive than smaller cities. Malaysia also offers attractive beaches and islands such as Langkawi, Perhentian, Redang, and Tioman, alongside diverse food and tropical weather. Foreign professionals usually need employer sponsorship for an Employment Pass, and approval depends on qualifications, salary, and role. Relocating employees should arrange housing, insurance, banking, tax registration, and healthcare access before arrival.