Downstream Operations Manager

Merck • Elkhorn, NE

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

Downstream Operations Manager
Are you ready to lead a dynamic team in a cutting-edge biopharmaceutical environment? Our company is seeking a Downstream Operations Manager who is passionate about driving excellence in production processes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Join us in our mission to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals.

Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED with five years in the vaccine, pharmaceutical, food, or equivalent industry or
• Bachelor’s degree with three years in the vaccine, pharmaceutical, food, or equivalent industry
• Excellent teambuilding skills that focus on mentoring and coaching
• Working knowledge of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP’s) or equivalent regulations
• Ability to prioritize, focus on, and obtain results
• Working knowledge of aseptic techniques
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Excellent communication (verbal and written) and organizational skills
• Excellent problem solving and decision-making skills

Nice To Haves

• Supervisory experience
• Experience with vaccine manufacturing, Clean in Place (CIP), Steam in Place (SIP)
• Experience in SAP and inventory control
• Lean, Six Sigma experience

Responsibilities

• Model our company's leadership principles and inclusive behaviors.
• Hire, manage, and develop employees within the team.
• Provide coaching and support skills development and process capabilities within the Integrated Process Team (IPT).
• Offer effective feedback and coaching during the Performance Management cycle and ensure Employee Development Plans (EDP’s) are in place.
• Ensure all operators receive appropriate training for all assigned tasks.
• Manage the effective performance of individuals in their teams.
• Lead Tier and functional team meetings.
• Demonstrate a strong compliance mindset (EHS, Quality, and Finance) and set a high standard for themselves and their team.
• Ensure safe operating instructions for all tasks and equipment are followed.
• Ensure the availability and utilization of the right tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment.
• Report all incidents and near misses within 24 hours and participate in the investigation and identification of effective corrective and preventative actions (CAPA).
• Support the on-time completion of Quality compliance tasks related to Deviation, CAPA, and Change Control management.
• Support all aspects of Quality Assurance including cGMP, RFT, and good documentation practices and provide coaching to the team.
• Be accountable for the daily, weekly, and monthly schedule adherence of production activities within their department.
• Contribute to creating a culture of continuous improvement and lead by example.
• Sponsor effective problem solving and ensure that resources are available.
• Ensure visibility and communication of key productivity metrics with the teams.
• Implement and execute Standard Work in all functional areas.
• Meet agreed departmental budget for Spend, Transfers to Inventory (TTI), Discards, and Headcount.
• Recognize and investigate opportunities for financial savings.

Benefits

• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees