Automation & Controls Specialist

Merck•Milwaukee, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation and Controls Specialist at the Milwaukee, WI site is responsible for designing, programming, and implementing control strategies to optimize manufacturing processes using advanced automation technologies. This role requires proficiency in configuring and troubleshooting systems such as PLCs, SCADA, DCS, and HMI. While the role focuses on Smart Manufacturing and CapEx projects implementation, day-to-day it may also support diagnosis and resolution of issues related to control systems throughout the Milwaukee Site.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Computer or Controls Engineering 4 + years of academic or industrial experience OR Master’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Computer or Controls Engineering 2 + years of academic or industrial experience
Maintains a strong safety profile while working in environments requiring PPE and a keen awareness of chemical, electrical, and mechanical hazards.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in hardware and software design, programming, and implementation across PLCs, SCADA, DCS, HMIs, motion controls, and automation languages (such as Python, MATLAB, C/C++, and PLC languages).
Deep experience diagnosing and root-causing issues within complex automation, electromechanical equipment, and control systems, with secondary skills in CAD, prototyping, and fabrication.
Skilled in simulation tools, Design of Experiments (DOE), and tuning methodologies to optimize system performance under strict ISO 9001 and safe work guidelines.
Proven capability to independently plan and execute projects (even with ambiguity), maintain rigorous technical documentation, and rapidly learn emerging mechatronic/AI technologies.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills used to present technical performance updates to leadership, collaborate cross-functionally, and train production or technical teams.

Responsibilities

Understands business and operational needs and identifies opportunities to apply automation, robotics, and mechatronic technologies to improve efficiency and reliability.
Designs, programs, implements, and optimizes automation, control, and robotic systems including PLCs, SCADA, DCS, HMI, motion control, and electromechanical equipment.
Diagnoses, upgrades, and optimizes automation, robotics, and control systems to drive maximum throughput, equipment reliability, and operational stability.
Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams and external partners to lead the successful transfer, validation, and implementation of automated solutions across Production, QC, and Technical Services.
Works independently with substantial discretion while aligning decisions with engineering standards and company policies.
Contributes to prototype development, system testing, and documentation of automation and mechatronic innovations.
Manages end-to-end automation projects and timelines, mentors junior staff, maintains strict technical documentation, and ensures full compliance with safety and quality regulations.
Serves as the primary automation and controls representative in technical and vendor meetings while independently leading projects of modest complexity.
Introduces new automated processes in collaboration with quality, regulatory, safety, and production teams.
Supports product and process launches by ensuring automation readiness and providing troubleshooting and optimization.
Serves as a technical liaison between automation, maintenance, engineering, and other technical groups.
Upholds strict safety regulations for all automation systems while providing hands-on training and mentorship to engineers, technicians, and production teams.
Applies iterative and agile methodologies to automation and controls projects to improve development speed and outcomes.
Develop and validate sustainable robotic packaging and inspection systems under ISO 9001, smoothly transferring operations to designated teams via comprehensive training, SOPs, and cross-departmental technical support.
Monitors emerging automation, AI, and robotics trends to develop long-term project concepts with internal innovation teams while actively managing vendor relationships to support operational excellence.