Senior Scientist, DDT –Lab Automation, Automation Systems Engineer (Lab & Robotics)

Merck; Rahway (NJ); On-site; USD 117,000 - 184,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck in Rahway, NJ, is seeking a Senior Scientist within DSCS Digital Technologies to design and deploy automation solutions that connect robotics, instrumentation, and software. You will transform experiments, scale automated workflows, and collaborate with scientists, engineers, and IT to accelerate discovery and innovation.

The role emphasizes hands-on development of integrated systems, data-driven decision making, and advancing digital lab capabilities across pharmaceutical research.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or closely related field with expected graduation in 2026.
• MS in Engineering or closely related field with at least 2 years of relevant experience.
• BS in Engineering with at least 4 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Design the lab of the future by developing automation systems that integrate robotics, instrumentation, and software into cohesive, high-performing solutions.
• Translate science into systems by partnering with researchers to understand experimental needs and convert them into scalable automated workflows.
• Work at the intersection of disciplines, collaborating with automation, data science, modeling, IT, and digital engineering experts.
• Lead high-impact projects from concept through deployment across teams to deliver meaningful outcomes.
• Continuously improve existing automation platforms to enhance performance, usability, and reliability.
• Connect the ecosystem by integrating robotic platforms with laboratory equipment and data systems for end-to-end digital workflows.
• Provide hands-on support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists using these systems.

Skills

Automation

Computer Programming

Data Analysis

Hardware Integration

Innovative Thinking

Interpersonal Relationships

Laboratory Automation

Laboratory Documentation

Laboratory Robotics

Laboratory Techniques

Lab Testing Equipment

Mechatronics

Pharmaceutical Research

Scripting Languages

Education

Ph.D. in Engineering or related field

MS in Engineering with 2+ years relevant experience

BS in Engineering with 4+ years relevant experience

Tools

DeltaV

PLC Programming

SCADA Control Systems

Sartorius Ambr250

Benchling

Signals

Job description

Job Description

In the Development Sciences and Clinical Supply (DSCS) organization, we believe digital is the force multiplier that enables faster experiments, smarter decisions, more robust supply chains, and is ultimately redefining how we bring medicines to patients.

Job Description

In the Development Sciences and Clinical Supply (DSCS) organization, we believe digital is the force multiplier that enables faster experiments, smarter decisions, more robust supply chains, and is ultimately redefining how we bring medicines to patients.

Within DSCS, the DSCS Digital Technologies (DDT) team is building the next generation of data-rich, connected lab environments—where hardware, software, and AI-driven tools work together to accelerate pharmaceutical development. Our goal is simple but ambitious: embed advanced digital capabilities into the DNA of how we work. We believe this future starts with an effective foundation of laboratory tools: innovative robotics, process analytical technology (PAT), high-throughput technologies, reliable instrumentation, and integrated systems that seamlessly transition data from the physical labs to the digital world. We believe innovation is fueled by diverse teams that come together to build technologies that truly impact how our scientists conduct research. We’re looking for a Senior Scientist to help make this vision real.

In this role, you won’t just support experiments—you’ll transform how they happen. You’ll design and deploy cutting-edge automation solutions that enable scientists to move faster, generate higher-quality data, and focus on what matters most: discovery and innovation. You’ll work to augment the capabilities of our current laboratory systems, creating custom solutions that unlock new potential for our scientists. You’ll collaborate with a diverse network of scientists, engineers, and digital experts to build integrated systems that connect instruments, robotics, and data—turning complex workflows into seamless, intelligent processes. If you’re excited by the idea of combining science, engineering, and digital innovation— If you are a maker, a builder, a tinkerer —this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact and transform pharmaceutical research!

How You’ll Make An Impact

• Design the lab of the future by developing automation systems that integrate robotics, instrumentation, and software into cohesive, high-performing solutions
• Translate science into systems by partnering with researchers to understand experimental needs and convert them into scalable automated workflows
• Work at the intersection of disciplines, collaborating with experts in automation, data science, modeling, IT, and digital engineering
• Lead high-impact projects from concept through deployment, working across teams and stakeholders to deliver meaningful outcomes
• Continuously improve existing automation platforms to enhance performance, usability, and reliability
• Connect the ecosystem by integrating robotic platforms with laboratory equipment and data systems to enable end-to-end digital workflows
• Empower others by providing hands-on support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists using these systems

Education Minimum Requirement

• A Ph.D. in Engineering (i.e. Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related field (Expected graduation in 2026)
• A M.S. in Engineering (i.e. Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related field with at least 2 years of relevant experience
• A B.S. in in Engineering (i.e. Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related field with at least 4 years of relevant experience

Required Experience And Skills

• Experience in a lab-based setting, working with lab automation and equipment integration
• Experience with scripting/programming following accepted best practices (version control, design patterns, clean code)
• Understanding of (bio)pharmaceutical process research and development, drug product development, and/ or analytical development
• Demonstrated ability to work in an entrepreneurial and independent manner on cross-functional teams
• Efficient scientific collaboration and communication skills with the ability to navigate conversations with technicians and vendors

Preferred Experience And Skills

• Experience with scripting/programming in one or more of the following: Python, C#, VBA, JavaScript, R
• Experience with automation edge devices and controllers (PLC, microcontrollers, etc)
• Experience with industrial SCADA or orchestration software (DeltaV, Ignition, WinCC OA, etc)
• Experience with benchtop automated reactor systems such as Sartorius Ambr250
• Experience with laboratory automation software, firmware, hardware, and their integration into end-to-end solutions
• Experience in integrating laboratory instruments with custom or commercial software solutions
• Ability to recognize, design, prototype, and deploy innovative technologies in laboratory automation
• Understanding of data science and AI/ML concepts and their application to laboratory automation
• Wet lab experience in (bio)pharmaceutical drug substance, drug product, and analytical research and development
• Experience with commercial laboratory notebook software like Benchling or Signals
• Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity
• Deep interest and desire to understand how systems work. Self-proclaimed maker, builder, tinkerer

Required Skills

Automation, Computer Programming, Data Analysis, Hardware Integration, Innovative Thinking, Interpersonal Relationships, Laboratory Automation, Laboratory Documentation, Laboratory Robotics, Laboratory Techniques, Lab Testing Equipment, Mechatronics, Pharmaceutical Research, Scripting Languages

Preferred Skills

Emerson DeltaV, PLC Programming, SCADA Control Systems

US And Puerto Rico Residents Only

Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities.

Requirements

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit: EEOC Know Your Rights EEOC GINA Supplement We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together, talented, and committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively. Learn more about your rights, including under California, Colorado and other US State Acts

The primary location for this posting is:

USA - New Jersey - Rahway

Where required by law, the compensation range for this role is provided below.

The salary range for the primary location of this role is:

$117,000.00 - $184,200.00

This range reflects the Company's reasonable expectation of the base salary applicable to this role at the time of posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs. The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

Additional location(s):

Please note the salary range above applies to the Primary Location of the position. Where a role has other listed locations, different compensation guidelines may apply. You may find the salary ranges for additional locations below. If the salary range is not listed for the location you are applying to, our Talent Acquisition team will provide further information to you relevant to your location.

Additional location(s) Compensation Information:

San Francisco Residents Only:

Los Angeles Residents Only:

Employee Status: Regular

Relocation: Domestic/International

VISA Sponsorship: Yes

Travel Requirements: 10%

Flexible Work Arrangements: Not Applicable

Shift: 1st - Day

Valid Driving License: No

Hazardous Material(s): n/a

Job Posting End Date: 10/24/2026