---
title: Big Pharma vs Small Pharma | Explore The Best Pharmaceutical Companies To Work For - UPM Pharmaceuticals
description: Discover whether big pharma vs small pharma is right for you at UPM Pharmaceuticals. When working for pharmaceutical companies, you must determine if big or small companies are right for you. We explain how to determine the best pharma companies to work for. Learn more about working in the pharmaceutical industry here.
---
- [Home](https://www.upm-inc.com)
- [Who We Are](https://www.upm-inc.com/who-we-are/about-upm-pharmaceuticals)
- [About UPM Pharmaceuticals](https://www.upm-inc.com/who-we-are/about-upm-pharmaceuticals)
- [Manufacturing Services](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/commercial-manufacturing-services)
- [Commercial Manufacturing Services](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/commercial-manufacturing-services)
- [Technology Transfer & Scale-Up Support](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/technology-transfer-and-scale-up-support)
- [Quality & Regulatory Support](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/quality-and-regulatory-support)
- [Formulation & Analytical Development](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/formulation-and-analytical-development)
- [Packaging & Warehousing](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/packaging-and-warehousing)
- [Pharmaceutical Manufacturing](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/pharmaceutical-manufacturing)
- [Coated Tablet Manufacturing](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/coated-tablets)
- [Pharmaceutical Serialization](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/pharmaceutical-serialization)
- [Pharmaceutical Aggregation](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/pharmaceutical-aggregation)
- [Specialized Handling Capabilities](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/semi-solids-handling)
- [Semi-Solid Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/semi-solids-handling)
- [Solid Dose Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/solid-dose-handling)
- [High-Potent Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/high-potent-handling)
- [Controlled Substance Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/controlled-substance-handling)
- [Sustained-Release Tablet Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/sustained-release-handling)
- [Microbiological Testing Lab Services](https://www.upm-inc.com/microbiological-testing-lab-services)
- [Commercial Facility](https://www.upm-inc.com/commercial-manufacturing-facility)
- [Virtual Tour](https://www.upm-inc.com/virtual-tour-of-upm-pharmaceuticals)
- [Resources](https://www.upm-inc.com/news-and-media)
- [Media](https://www.upm-inc.com/news-and-media)
- [Blog](https://www.upm-inc.com/blog)
- [Glossary](https://www.upm-inc.com/glossary)
- [Contact](https://www.upm-inc.com/contact)
- [Careers](https://www.upm-inc.com/careers)
- [Contact](https://www.upm-inc.com/contact)
- [Request for Proposal](https://www.upm-inc.com/request-for-proposal)
- [Virtual Tour of Our Facilities](https://www.upm-inc.com/virtual-tour-of-upm-pharmaceuticals)
- [Open Career Opportunities](https://www.upm-inc.com/careers)
- [Contact Us to Accelerate Your Journey to Market](https://www.upm-inc.com/contact)
# Which Big Pharma vs Small Pharma Companies Should You Work For?
There are over [314,000 workers](https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/naics4_325400.htm) in the pharmaceutical industry, and the workforce is expected to grow [5.4% through 2029](https://datausa.io/profile/naics/pharmaceutical-medicine-manufacturing). While there'll be plenty of jobs around, the question often arises: **What are the best pharmaceutical companies to work for?**
With an [average base salary of $85,000](https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Industry=Pharmaceuticals/Salary) annually, working for pharmaceutical companies of any type can be lucrative. This article will compare big pharma vs. small pharma and review how to decide which are the best pharma companies to work for.
## Article Contents
- [Defining Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma](https://www.upm-inc.com/working-for-big-pharma-vs-small-pharma#chapter1)
- [Comparing Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma](https://www.upm-inc.com/working-for-big-pharma-vs-small-pharma#chapter2)
- [Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Sharpened Focus vs. Bigger Picture](https://www.upm-inc.com/working-for-big-pharma-vs-small-pharma#chapter3)
- [Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Structure vs. Impact](https://www.upm-inc.com/working-for-big-pharma-vs-small-pharma#chapter4)
- [Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Security vs. Rewards](https://www.upm-inc.com/working-for-big-pharma-vs-small-pharma#chapter5)
- [Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Progress vs. Satisfaction](https://www.upm-inc.com/working-for-big-pharma-vs-small-pharma#chapter6)
## Defining Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma
Before we look at how to find the best pharma companies to work for, let's review the basic definitions of big pharma vs. small pharma.
Big pharma usually refers to the very largest employers, those with tens of thousands of workers and billions of dollars in revenue. Small pharma is generally defined as operations with fewer than 500 employees. Big or small, pharmaceutical companies may deal with [pharmaceutical formulation](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/formulation-and-analytical-development) or [commercial drug manufacturing](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/commercial-manufacturing-services). They develop medicines for the entire gamut of conditions, including consumer health care products and treatments for disorders as wide-ranging as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Central nervous system conditions
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer's disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Women's health issues
- Infectious diseases
No matter where you're working in the pharmaceutical industry, your job will directly impact other people's lives.
## Comparing Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma
As we look at how to determine the best pharmaceutical companies to work for, there's a wide range of ways to compare big pharma vs. small pharma. In this article, we'll specifically review these comparisons:
- Sharpened Focus vs. Bigger Picture
- Structure vs. Impact
- Security vs. Rewards
- Progress vs. Satisfaction
## Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Sharpened Focus vs. Bigger Picture
In looking for the best pharma companies to work for, you'll want to discover what type of role you'll play. In big pharma companies, you'll likely focus on one tiny part of a larger project. Big pharma operations are primarily process-driven, and your job will be one specific element of that process, providing you with in-depth knowledge in that area.
On the other end of the big pharma vs. small pharma spectrum, small pharma companies offer the opportunity to experience the bigger picture of the project you're working on. You'll see how things are implemented and your project's effect on other people.
## Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Structure vs. Impact
When you compare big pharma vs. small pharma, you'll also want to see how their culture operates. Big pharma companies have spent years refining and documenting their systems. Their cultures are usually well-defined and structured, with each person playing a specific role.
On the other hand, the culture at small pharma companies can be much more fluid, allowing individuals to affect how the company operates. Small pharma employees can often let their personalities shine and shape the team they're working with.
## Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Security vs. Rewards
Although anything can happen in this economy, big pharma jobs are usually seen as more secure. With more diverse sources of revenue, big pharma companies can absorb changes in the economy and keep jobs intact.
But jobs at small pharma companies offer advantages of their own, often in the form of higher compensation. While base pay may be similar in comparing big pharma vs. small pharma, the smaller companies can provide alternatives like stock options that make a significant difference.
## Big Pharma vs. Small Pharma — Progress vs. Satisfaction
Big pharma jobs usually offer ample opportunities for career growth. Pre-defined career paths will largely determine your advancement.
While small pharma companies may not provide as many promotion opportunities, they also don't create the red tape often found at big pharma operations. The uncomplicated approach employed by small pharma companies contributes directly to greater job satisfaction.
CONTACT US
## UPM Pharmaceuticals: The Right Choice for a CDMO
At UPM, we combine many of the best aspects of big and small pharma. We're an independent, family-owned CDMO with a seven-acre pharmaceutical complex. Our extensive experience and solid track record ensure you get the product you need when you need it. Take a [virtual tour](https://www.upm-inc.com/virtual-tour-of-upm-pharmaceuticals) of our facility and be sure to contact us to learn how you can benefit from our expertise.
[Let's Talk](https://www.upm-inc.com/contact?hsLang=en)
## Related Articles: Best Pharmaceutical Companies to Work For
[
What Is a CDMO?
Learn what a contract development and manufacturing organization is and what it can do for you.
](https://www.upm-inc.com/what-is-a-cdmo)
[
How to Choose the Right Pharmaceutical Contract Manufacturer
Discover what you need to consider when selecting a contract manufacturer.
](https://www.upm-inc.com/choosing-the-right-pharmaceutical-contract-manufacturer?hsLang=en)
What We're Talking About
UPM Pharmaceuticals Welcomes Back Pat Hatem as Vice President of Manufacturing and Packaging
[ VIEW FULL CONTENT ](https://www.upm-inc.com/news-and-media/upm-pharmaceuticals-welcomes-back-pat-hatem-as-vice-president-of-manufacturing-and-packaging)
### Where We'll Be Next
DCAT Week
New York, NY
March 23-26, 2020
Booth #537
[ SCHEDULE A MEETING ](https://www-upm-inc-com.sandbox.hs-sites.com/contact)
The Definitive Guide: 32 Ways to Avoid Project Delays [Read it now](https://www.upm-inc.com/resources/32-ways-to-avoid-project-development-delays-new)
Download our recent presentation [View PDF](https://www.upm-inc.com/hubfs/Documents%20(PDFs)/2023_UPM%20PHARMACEUTICALS_deck.pdf)
See our newly updated equipment list [View PDF](https://www.upm-inc.com/hubfs/obx-pdfs/UPM%20Pharmaceuticals_Equipment%20Capable%20List-0323.pdf)
[](https://www.upm-inc.com/)
UPM Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
501 5th Street
Bristol, TN 37620
- - [Home](https://www.upm-inc.com)
- [About UPM](https://www.upm-inc.com/who-we-are/about-upm-pharmaceuticals)
- [Virtual Tour](https://www.upm-inc.com/virtual-tour-of-upm-pharmaceuticals)
- - [Commercial Manufacturing](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/commercial-manufacturing-services)
- [Technology Transfer & Scale-Up Support](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/technology-transfer-and-scale-up-support)
- [Quality & Regulatory Support](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/quality-and-regulatory-support)
- [Formulation & Analytical Development](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/formulation-and-analytical-development)
- [Packaging & Warehousing](https://www.upm-inc.com/manufacturing-services/packaging-and-warehousing)
- - [Semi-Solids Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/semi-solids-handling)
- [Solid Dose Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/solid-dose-handling)
- [High-Potent Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/high-potent-handling)
- [Controlled Substance Handling](https://www.upm-inc.com/specialized-handling-capabilities/controlled-substance-handling)
- - [Commercial Facility](https://www.upm-inc.com/commercial-manufacturing-facility)
- [News & Media](https://www.upm-inc.com/news-and-media)
- [Careers](https://www.upm-inc.com/careers)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.upm-inc.com/privacy)
- [Sitemap](https://www.upm-inc.com/site-map)
Contact UPM
[+1 423 989 8000](tel:+1%20423%20989%208000) [info@upm-inc.com](mailto:info@upm-inc.com?Subject=General%20Inquiry)
©2025 UPM Pharmaceuticals.
All Rights Reserved | [Privacy](https://www.upm-inc.com/privacy/)
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"name" : "UPM Pharmaceuticals",
"url" : "https://www.upm-inc.com/blog"
},
"description" : "Discover whether big pharma vs small pharma is right for you at UPM Pharmaceuticals. When working for pharmaceutical companies, you must determine if big or small companies are right for you. We explain how to determine the best pharma companies to work for. Learn more about working in the pharmaceutical industry here.",
"headline" : "Big Pharma vs Small Pharma | Explore The Best Pharmaceutical Companies To Work For - UPM Pharmaceuticals",
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://www.upm-inc.com/working-for-big-pharma-vs-small-pharma",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/v2/C4E0BAQFgebkBvYSQOQ/company-logo_200_200/company-logo_200_200/0/1630609331370/upm_pharmaceuticals_inc_logo?e=2147483647&v=beta&t=HvQowyD_15BicR71soB4vOPKsSkhRDrlvPnlXYsFWow"
},
"name" : "UPM Pharmaceuticals"
}
}
```