Downstream Operations Manager

Merck•Elkhorn, NE

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

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.