Associate Director, Robotics & Physical AI Programs

Merck & Co.; Rahway (NJ); Hybrid; USD 142,000 - 224,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

401(k) plan

Paid holidays

Job summary

Merck & Co. is seeking an Associate Director of Robotics Engineering / Physical AI to lead a portfolio of robotics, autonomous systems, machine vision, and automated material handling across manufacturing operations.

The role requires 8+ years in robotics/automation and experience in regulated environments. You will define scope, evaluate technologies, and guide deployments while coordinating with operations, quality, and engineering teams.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in robotics, automation, manufacturing engineering, biotech, pharma, or a related field.
• Experience leading robotics or autonomous systems projects in regulated or industrial environments.
• Experience with industrial robotics platforms and integration.
• Experience with machine vision, AI-enabled automation, or autonomous material handling preferred.
• Experience applying Deep Learning / Machine Learning models.
• Experience in GMP or regulated manufacturing environments preferred.
• Experience with commissioning, qualification, validation, and capital project execution.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Ability to lead change across functions and influence stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and sound engineering judgment.

Responsibilities

• Lead a portfolio of robotics and autonomous automation programs from concept through implementation.
• Define scope, evaluate technologies, and develop practical solutions aligned to business needs.
• Guide design and deployment of robotics systems and equipment integration.
• Support simulation studies, proof-of-concept development, commissioning, qualification, and startup.
• Direct engineering firms, integrators, and vendors to achieve program objectives.
• Work with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Safety, Automation, Tech Ops and Digital Manufacturing division stakeholders.
• Help establish standards, governance, and roadmap priorities for robotics and advanced automation.
• Coach and develop engineers and support broader adoption of new capabilities.

Skills

Robotics

Automation

Leadership

Communication

Machine vision

AI/ML integration

Regulated manufacturing

Commissioning/Qualification

Problem solving

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Merck & Co. is seeking an Associate Director of Robotics Engineering / Physical AI to lead a portfolio of robotics, autonomous systems, machine vision, and automated material handling across manufacturing operations.

The role requires 8+ years in robotics/automation and experience in regulated environments. You will define scope, evaluate technologies, and guide deployments while coordinating with operations, quality, and engineering teams.