Fabrication Associate I

Merck & Co.; Shrewsbury (MA); On-site; USD 28,654 - 41,190; Full time

Job summary

Merck & Co. in the United States is seeking a Fabrication Associate I to perform plastic welding and fabrication for custom assemblies in a GMP-regulated environment.

You will work from engineering drawings, specifications, and SOPs to ensure safe, accurate, and high-quality production. The role emphasizes precision, collaboration, and continuous improvement while supporting internal and external customers.

Qualifications

• Must have strong mechanical aptitude and interest in hands-on fabrication.
• Ability to read and interpret dimensional drawings, specs, BOMs, and job orders.
• Follow SOPs and established manufacturing processes with consistency.
• Maintain high attention to detail and produce accurate, high-quality work.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and cross-functional partners.

Responsibilities

• Interpret blueprints and client concepts to fabricate plastic assemblies and equipment.
• Produce high-quality work meeting specifications, timelines, and standards.
• Adhere to safety, GMP, and company procedures while promoting safety culture.
• Follow SOPs and production schedules to support efficient workflow.
• Use hand and power tools to manufacture products and assemblies.
• Maintain craftsmanship with precision, durability, and attention to detail.
• Inspect completed work and escalate quality concerns when needed.
• Contribute ideas for process improvements to enhance quality and efficiency.
• Keep a clean, organized 5S-compliant workspace.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Reading blueprints

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Band saws

Drill presses

Measuring instruments

Hand and power tools

Job description

The Fabrication Associate I is responsible for performing plastic welding and fabrication activities to support the production of custom plastic assemblies and equipment in a GMP-regulated environment. Working from engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions, this role ensures products are manufactured safely, accurately, and to the highest quality standards. The successful candidate is detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and committed to operational excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement while supporting the needs of both internal and external customers.

This role is expected to model our Leadership Behaviors-Integrity & Compliance, Customer Focus, Collaboration, Courage, Team Empowerment, and Accountability & Results-in all aspects of work.

Responsibilities

• Interpret blueprints, sketches, dimensional drawings, and client concepts to fabricate custom plastic assemblies and equipment.
• Demonstrate ownership and accountability by producing high-quality work that meets specifications, timelines, and quality standards.
• Adhere to all safety, GMP, and company procedures while promoting a culture of safety and operational excellence.
• Follow work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and production schedules to support efficient workflow and on-time delivery.
• Use hand tools and fabrication techniques, including woodworking, welding, and plastic fabrication methods, to manufacture products and assemblies.
• Maintain a high standard of craftsmanship, ensuring products are built with precision, durability, and attention to detail.
• Inspect completed work and identify potential quality concerns, escalating issues proactively and supporting problem resolution.
• Collaborate effectively with team members, supervisors, and cross-functional partners to achieve department goals and support overall business objectives.
• Contribute ideas for process improvements that enhance quality, safety, efficiency, or organization within the work area.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inspection-ready workspace in accordance with 5S, GMP, and safety requirements.
• Safely operate hand and power tools and fabrication equipment, including band saws, drill presses, pipe benders, and other shop equipment.
• Read and accurately use measurement instruments and devices to verify dimensions and ensure product conformance.
• Support changing business priorities and demonstrate flexibility in completing assigned tasks as production needs evolve.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in hands-on manufacturing or fabrication work.
• Ability to read and interpret dimensional drawings, specifications, bills of materials, and job order requirements.
• Experience using hand and power tools, including band saws, drill presses, and similar fabrication equipment.
• Ability to follow work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and established manufacturing processes.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while maintaining accountability for individual responsibilities.
• Effective problem-solving skills and willingness to learn new techniques, tools, and processes.
• Ability to prioritize work, adapt to changing needs, and maintain productivity in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Finished carpentry, welding, plastics fabrication, or related technical experience preferred.
• Prior experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment, including GMP practices, is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to frequently use hands for handling tools, equipment, and production materials.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds independently.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist as required to perform manufacturing tasks.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements.
• Ability to read measuring devices, engineering drawings, labels, and computer screens.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, moving equipment, and varying temperatures while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to climb steps or ladders as needed to perform assigned duties (if applicable).

Our mission is to inspire advances in bioprocessing as a trusted partner in the production of biologic drugs that improve human health worldwide. Focused on cost and process efficiencies, we deliver innovative technologies and solutions that help set new standards in bioprocessing. The estimated base salary range for this role, based in the United States of America is $20.80/hr.-$29.90/hr. Compensation decisions are dependent on several factors including, but not limited to an individual's qualifications, location, internal equity, and alignment with market data. Additionally, employees are eligible to participate in one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package. We offer a wide range of benefits such as paid time off, health/dental/vision, retirement benefits and flexible spending accounts. All compensation and benefits information will be confirmed in writing at the time of offer.