Senior Small Molecule Operations Engineer

Merck; Elkton (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck, a premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company, is seeking a Senior Operations Engineer - Drug Product for its new small molecule facility in Elkton, Virginia. You will join a team driving commissioning, qualification, and startup activities to enable safe, compliant, and efficient operations.

The role requires 5+ years in Drug Product/SDI manufacturing, strong GMP knowledge, and proven cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related technical discipline required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Drug Product/SDI manufacturing, including operations and technical operations.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, quality, and regulatory expectations in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Support commissioning, qualification, start-up, and operational readiness for the new DP Small Molecule facility in Elkton, VA.
• Partner with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Technical Operations, Supply Chain, and other stakeholders to ensure safe, compliant start-up.
• Provide technical and operational support during equipment and process start-up, troubleshooting, and optimization.

Skills

Adaptability

Analytical Problem Solving

cGMP Compliance

Chemical Engineering

Cross-Functional Project Management

Data Analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

Merck, a premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company, is seeking a Senior Operations Engineer - Drug Product for its new small molecule facility in Elkton, Virginia. You will join a team driving commissioning, qualification, and startup activities to enable safe, compliant, and efficient operations.

The role requires 5+ years in Drug Product/SDI manufacturing, strong GMP knowledge, and proven cross-functional collaboration.