Senior SDI Operations Lead — Small Molecule Manufacturing

Merck; Elkton (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck in Elkton, Virginia, is building a new Small Molecule SDI manufacturing facility and seeking an Operations Specialist to join the IPT. You’ll support commissioning, qualification, start-up, and operational readiness, collaborating with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient plant startup.

The role emphasizes problem solving, continuous improvement, and Lean practices (Kaizen, 5S, Standard Work) to embed best practices across shifts and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline (Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Biochemical Engineering, Chemistry) or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Drug Product/SDI manufacturing or related spray drying operations.
• Experience in cross-functional manufacturing, technical operations, or startup activities.

Responsibilities

• Support commissioning, qualification, start-up, and operational readiness for the SDI Small Molecule facility in Elkton, VA.
• Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Technical Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure safe, compliant plant start-up.
• Provide technical support during equipment and process start-up, troubleshooting, and optimization activities.
• Assist technology transfer and implementation of commercial manufacturing processes into the new facility.
• Promote best practices, standard work, and lean methods to drive reliable operations.

Skills

Analytical Problem Solving

GMP Compliance

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Technical Acumen

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering / Pharmaceutical Engineering / Biochemical Engineering / Chemistry

Job description

Merck in Elkton, Virginia, is building a new Small Molecule SDI manufacturing facility and seeking an Operations Specialist to join the IPT. You’ll support commissioning, qualification, start-up, and operational readiness, collaborating with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient plant startup.

The role emphasizes problem solving, continuous improvement, and Lean practices (Kaizen, 5S, Standard Work) to embed best practices across shifts and