Major Job Cuts Announced Across New Jersey Healthcare Sector as Key Companies Restructure
New Jersey’s healthcare and life sciences sector is facing a significant wave of job reductions in 2026, with nearly 300 positions expected to be eliminated across several major companies. The layoffs were revealed through official filings submitted to the state labor authorities in March, offering a clear picture of workforce changes planned in the coming months.
Among the companies making the largest cuts is Novartis Pharmaceuticals, which operates its U.S. headquarters in East Hanover. The company plans to eliminate 114 jobs between late June and late November. These cuts are part of a broader restructuring strategy that began four years ago. The goal of this long-term plan is to streamline operations, reduce costs by at least $1 billion, and maintain steady annual sales growth through 2026.
According to a company statement, Novartis is shifting its focus toward areas where it can deliver the greatest value to patients and customers. This includes strengthening its presence in rare and ultra-rare disease treatments. As part of this transition, the company is reorganizing its field sales teams, which has led to some roles being eliminated, while others are being redefined or newly created. The company has indicated that affected employees are encouraged to explore other open positions within the organization.
Another major employer impacted is Labcorp, which operates one of the largest laboratory networks globally. The company plans to cut 83 jobs at its Raritan facility, which serves as both a laboratory and logistics hub. These layoffs are expected to take effect in mid-July. As of now, the company has not publicly commented on the decision.
In addition to these healthcare-focused firms, workforce reductions are also being seen at multinational consumer health companies. Reckitt Benckiser, along with its subsidiaries RB Health and Mead Johnson Nutrition, is carrying out a combined round of layoffs at their shared headquarters in Parsippany. Together, these companies are expected to cut nearly 100 jobs.
Breaking down the numbers, Reckitt Benckiser is reducing 62 positions, while RB Health is eliminating 14 roles and Mead Johnson Nutrition is cutting 18 jobs. These layoffs began in early March and are scheduled to continue through the end of August. No official statements have been released by the companies regarding these job cuts.
The latest figures highlight a broader shift within New Jersey’s healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, where companies are increasingly focusing on efficiency, specialization, and long-term growth strategies. While restructuring efforts are often aimed at improving competitiveness and innovation, they can also bring uncertainty for workers and local communities.
For employees affected by these layoffs, the coming months may involve job transitions, retraining, or relocation within the industry. At the same time, these developments reflect how major corporations are adapting to changing market demands, technological advancements, and evolving patient needs.
Sources:
State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Official company statements and WARN filings submitted in March
