Associate Specialist, Bio Technology Solutions (BTS)

For over 130 years, we have pioneered groundbreaking science. Today, we are driven by continuous innovation to develop breakthrough medicines, vaccines and technology. Rooted in direct experience on the farm and in the clinic, we work hand in hand with our customers every step of the way.

Our singular focus is to empower those who care for animals, helping them manage their vital responsibility with confidence. Because when it comes to animal health, no one sees it like we do.

Our Animal Health Manufacturing teams are responsible for delivering high-quality vaccines and biopharmaceutical products that protect animal health around the world. We operate with a “Safety First, Quality Always” mindset and are committed to continuous improvement, scientific excellence, and collaboration across a global manufacturing network.

This position offers a unique opportunity for an early-career engineer or scientist to apply technical knowledge in a manufacturing environment while developing expertise in biologics production, process troubleshooting, investigations, validation, and continuous improvement.

Position Responsibilities:

• Support day-to-day manufacturing operations by providing technical assistance for vaccine and biopharmaceutical production processes.
• Assist with troubleshooting process, equipment, and operational issues to support uninterrupted manufacturing operations.
• Participate in technical investigations, root cause analyses, and corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities.
• Analyze manufacturing data and process performance metrics to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Support process improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, reliability, productivity, and cost effectiveness.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, BTS Analytical, and BTS Process Development teams to resolve technical issues and improve process performance.
• Support lifecycle management of commercial manufacturing processes through data collection, analysis, and documentation.
• Assist in qualification, validation, and verification activities associated with manufacturing processes and equipment.
• Author and revise technical documents, including protocols, reports, investigations, risk assessments, operating procedures, and manufacturing support documentation.
• Support implementation of engineering controls, process analytical technologies, and standardized work practices.
• Participate in laboratory-scale and production-scale studies that support process understanding and continuous improvement.
• Contribute to technical evaluations associated with process changes, manufacturing deviations, and new technology implementation.
• Ensure all activities are performed in accordance with site safety requirements, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), and applicable regulatory standards.
• Present technical findings and project updates to team members and stakeholders.
• Effectively collaborate in cross-functional teams while fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment.
• Perform off-shift support or routine coverage activities as needed.

Required:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biological Systems Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Protein Chemistry, or other related engineering or life science disciplines.
• Demonstrated technical aptitude through academic, internship, co-op, undergraduate research, or professional experiences.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to evaluate issues from multiple perspectives including safety, compliance, equipment, process, and operational considerations.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to learn new technologies and manufacturing processes quickly.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within team environments.
• Demonstrated collaboration and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and technical documentation practices.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated integrity and scientific rigor in decision making.

Preferred :

• Internship, co-op, undergraduate research, or industry experience in biotechnology, biologics, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, or related manufacturing environments.
• Experience with fermentation, cell culture, purification, filtration, or sterile manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of cGMP manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis and data-driven decision making.
• Experience supporting investigations, validation, or process improvement projects.
• Understanding of process monitoring and control concepts.
• Familiarity with USDA or other regulated manufacturing requirements.
• Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies., Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Data Analysis, Detail-Oriented, Engineering Standards, Equipment Maintenance, Estimation and Planning, Field Failure Analysis, Manufacturing Processes, Manufacturing Quality Control, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Process Design, Process Improvements, Product Formulation, Teamwork

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 (https://www.msdprivacy.com/us/en/CCPA-notice/)

The salary range for this role is

$71,900.00 - $113,200.00

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.