Manufacturing Operations Leader (GMP/Lean)

Merck; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 106,000 - 167,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck is seeking a Manufacturing Operations Senior Specialist to lead a manufacturing team across end-to-end vaccine production processes, from media preparation to packaging and release. The role focuses on coaching, process improvements, and ensuring reliable operations to support commercial manufacturing.

The position requires strong leadership, Lean Six Sigma certification, and experience with GMP environments and electronic manufacturing systems.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a manufacturing operations team.
• Lean Six Sigma certification.
• Experience in GMP-regulated manufacturing with electronic systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop, motivate, and manage a team to ensure reliable manufacturing, testing and release execution.
• Provide leadership presence on the manufacturing floor and coach teams on improvements.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes and lead cost-saving or efficiency initiatives.
• Represent Operations on project teams and ensure safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Team Leadership

Problem Solving

Lean Six Sigma

Communication

Multitasking

Manufacturing Knowledge

Continuous Improvement

Education

Bachelor in Engineering or Life Science

Master's or MBA

Tools

SAP

GLIMS

Job description

Merck is seeking a Manufacturing Operations Senior Specialist to lead a manufacturing team across end-to-end vaccine production processes, from media preparation to packaging and release. The role focuses on coaching, process improvements, and ensuring reliable operations to support commercial manufacturing.

The position requires strong leadership, Lean Six Sigma certification, and experience with GMP environments and electronic manufacturing systems.