Lead Process Automation Engineer – Vaccine Manufacturing

Merck; West Point (PA); Hybrid; USD 117,000 - 184,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid holidays and vacation

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Merck is seeking a Senior Specialist in Process Automation at the West Point, PA site to lead a two-person automation team within Digital Manufacturing Operations. You will provide expert support for vaccine manufacturing processes and ensure SDLC compliance, GMP, quality, and regulatory adherence.

The role involves collaboration across functions, on-the-floor manufacturing support, and driving process improvements while aligning with digital transformation initiatives at Merck.

Qualifications

• BS in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 7+ years in process automation or IT/OT.
• DeltaV DCS, PLC, SCADA, HMI, CSV, SDLC knowledge.
• Strong technical writing abilities.
• Knowledge of S88 Batch Standard.
• GxP regulatory knowledge.
• Experience with validation of processes and equipment.
• Excellent communication across organizational levels and with external partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of two engineers in process automation support for our vaccine manufacturing facility.
• Prioritize workload while ensuring SDLC, GMP, safety, and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with IPT and other functions through ownership of automated systems.
• Support manufacturing activities on the shop floor.
• Design and implement process control improvements and corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot automation issues and participate in deviation investigations.
• Administer automated control systems and maintain inspection readiness.
• Demonstrate leadership to foster a high-performing team environment.
• Represent the automation function on the IPT leadership team.
• Communicate with business, technical, and quality stakeholders through the tier process.
• Support audits/inspections with automation expertise and GMP knowledge.
• Continuously evaluate systems and plan for upgrades or replacements.
• Support site and global digital transformation initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Technical writing

GxP knowledge

Regulatory knowledge

Education

BS in Engineering

Tools

DeltaV DCS

PLC

SCADA

HMI

CSV

SDLC

Job description

Merck is seeking a Senior Specialist in Process Automation at the West Point, PA site to lead a two-person automation team within Digital Manufacturing Operations. You will provide expert support for vaccine manufacturing processes and ensure SDLC compliance, GMP, quality, and regulatory adherence.

The role involves collaboration across functions, on-the-floor manufacturing support, and driving process improvements while aligning with digital transformation initiatives at Merck.