Senior Automation Scientist - Lab Systems & Robotics

Merck; New Jersey; On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck in New Jersey is seeking a Senior Scientist to design and deploy automation that connects robotics, instrumentation, and software to accelerate pharmaceutical development. You will collaborate with scientists, engineers, and digital specialists to build integrated systems that turn complex workflows into streamlined, intelligent processes.

The role requires leading high-impact projects from concept through deployment, translating experimental needs into scalable automated workflows, and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Engineering or closely related field by December 2026
• MS in Engineering with at least 2 years of relevant experience
• BS in Engineering with at least 4 years of relevant experience

Responsibilities

• Design automation systems integrating robotics, instrumentation, and software
• Translate experiments into scalable automated workflows
• Lead high-impact automation projects across teams
• Improve automation platforms for performance and reliability
• Connect robotic platforms with lab equipment and data systems
• Provide hands-on support and training to scientists

Skills

Lab automation

Scripting

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical development

Education

PhD in Engineering or related field

MS with 2+ years experience

BS with 4+ years experience

Tools

PLC

Microcontrollers

Job description

Merck in New Jersey is seeking a Senior Scientist to design and deploy automation that connects robotics, instrumentation, and software to accelerate pharmaceutical development. You will collaborate with scientists, engineers, and digital specialists to build integrated systems that turn complex workflows into streamlined, intelligent processes.

The role requires leading high-impact projects from concept through deployment, translating experimental needs into scalable automated workflows, and