Associate Production Scientist

The businesses of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany•Sheboygan Falls, WI

9d•$27 - $48•Onsite

About The Position

In this role, responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Independently and accurately setting up equipment to manufacture chemical compounds—including existing items, new product introductions, lost supplier replacements, takeovers, and custom orders—and executing corresponding analytical testing. Ensures end-to-end quality throughout the manufacturing process, verifying that final products meet strict specifications, and thoroughly documenting all data and observations per department guidelines. Rechecks analytical results for any out-of-specification (OOS) data, selects alternative testing methodologies, and proactively escalates issues for management assistance when necessary. Leads the department during supervisor absences or directs a small production group; dynamically balances responsibilities to shift focus toward chemical production or process improvement if supervisory duties exceed 10% of total time. Assists with workforce scheduling and task assignments to ensure completion; leads small teams during shift changeovers to guarantee seamless, clean handoffs across all shifts. Mentors and trains new hires while assisting with the cross-training of current personnel; creates and maintains detailed equipment calibration logs and employee training records. Serves on specialized committees dedicated to driving continuous improvement across the department, site, or company, focusing on safety, quality, inventory, output, and cost reduction. Reviews established operational protocols to suggest proactive changes for management review, maintains exemplary attendance/adherence to schedules, and executes miscellaneous tasks as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or other Life Science discipline.
1+ years of experience in a laboratory setting in chemical production.

Nice To Haves

Experience with ISO and quality systems.
Ability to read and understand written protocols.
Strong problem solving and equipment troubleshooting skills.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Advanced knowledge of chemistry and math.
Strong mechanical and technical aptitude.
Experience with ISO and quality systems.
Experience operating a forklift.

Responsibilities

Independently and accurately sets up equipment to manufacture chemical compounds—including existing items, new product introductions, lost supplier replacements, takeovers, and custom orders—and executes corresponding analytical testing.
Ensures end-to-end quality throughout the manufacturing process, verifying that final products meet strict specifications, and thoroughly documents all data and observations per department guidelines.
Rechecks analytical results for any out-of-specification (OOS) data, selects alternative testing methodologies, and proactively escalates issues for management assistance when necessary.
Leads the department during supervisor absences or directs a small production group; dynamically balances responsibilities to shift focus toward chemical production or process improvement if supervisory duties exceed 10% of total time.
Assists with workforce scheduling and task assignments to ensure completion; leads small teams during shift changeovers to guarantee seamless, clean handoffs across all shifts.
Mentors and trains new hires while assisting with the cross-training of current personnel; creates and maintains detailed equipment calibration logs and employee training records.
Serves on specialized committees dedicated to driving continuous improvement across the department, site, or company, focusing on safety, quality, inventory, output, and cost reduction.
Reviews established operational protocols to suggest proactive changes for management review, maintains exemplary attendance/adherence to schedules, and executes miscellaneous tasks as assigned.