Entry-Level Automation Engineer – Manufacturing Operations

Merck; Elkton (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck's Elkton, VA campus seeks an Entry-Level Automation Associate Specialist to support 24/7 manufacturing operations as a hands-on automation resource on the shop floor, rotating days/nights. You will troubleshoot PLCs, DCS, and OEM platforms, and work with a cross-functional team to ensure safe, compliant production of life-saving medicines.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering/Science/Business, possess strong problem‑solving and communication skills, and are eager

Qualifications

• Strong technical and analytical problem-solving skills with a hands-on, field-first mindset.
• Ability to evaluate issues from multiple perspectives, including safety, compliance, maintenance, automation, equipment, process, and people.
• Strong desire to succeed individually while helping others succeed as a team.
• Enthusiastic, confident self-starter with a passion for continuous learning.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability and expectation to work onsite in an operational manufacturing setting.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on automation technical support across the manufacturing site while working 12-hour rotating shifts (days/nights, weekends, and holidays as required)
• Serve as the initial point of contact for shop-floor automation support calls
• Troubleshoot and support automation systems, including PLCs, DCS, and OEM automation platforms
• Diagnose and resolve complex automation and equipment issues impacting manufacturing yield, cycle time, reliability and uptime
• Maintain automation systems in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs)
• Oversee investigations of automation anomalies and implement solutions to prevent recurrence
• Develop solutions for recurring automation problems and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Provide automation-related training and technical guidance to operations and technical staff
• Write, review, and improve procedures for system administration and process operation
• Participate in process and equipment safety reviews
• Embrace and promote an empowered, diverse, and inclusive team culture

Skills

Audit Management

Automation

Automation Solutions

Automation Technology

Breakdown Maintenance

Process Improvements

Real-Time Programming

Manufacturing

Electrical Engineering

Problem Management

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, or Business

Tools

Emerson DeltaV

Allen-Bradley PLCs

OSI-PI

SQL

Infobatch

Batch Processing and S88 standards

Job description

Merck's Elkton, VA campus seeks an Entry-Level Automation Associate Specialist to support 24/7 manufacturing operations as a hands-on automation resource on the shop floor, rotating days/nights. You will troubleshoot PLCs, DCS, and OEM platforms, and work with a cross-functional team to ensure safe, compliant production of life-saving medicines.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering/Science/Business, possess strong problem‑solving and communication skills, and are eager