Executive Assistant

Merck • Elkhorn, NE

9h • Hybrid

About The Position

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
The Executive Assistant reports directly to the Site Lead and provides advanced administrative, operational, and organizational support for this role. This position requires independent judgment, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage complex priorities in a fast‑paced environment. The Senior Administrative Assistant serves as a trusted partner—anticipating needs, improving processes, and ensuring efficient and professional execution of daily operations.

Requirements

• High school diploma required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 4–6+ years of administrative experience, with at least 2 years supporting senior leadership or managing complex administrative functions.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint). Ability to manage shared drives, Teams channels, and structured digital filing systems.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy Strong written and verbal communication skills Ability to manage shifting priorities and tight deadlines High level of confidentiality, discretion, and emotional intelligence Strong relationship-building and customer-service orientation

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting directors or multi‑leader teams.
• Comfort operating in dynamic environments such as manufacturing, pharma/biotech, engineering, or corporate operations.
• Demonstrated ability to streamline processes, improve workflows, and introduce organizational efficiency.
• Strong initiative and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex calendars, including cross‑functional coordination, rescheduling, and prioritizing competing meetings.
• Prepare high‑quality presentations, briefs, reports, and communication materials for leadership.
• Coordinate confidential personnel matters, including hiring processes, onboarding, performance documentation, and HR interactions.
• Anticipate needs and proactively identify issues, risks, and opportunities to optimize leader time and information flow.
• Act as a primary point of contact for internal and external partners on behalf of leadership.
• Draft, edit, and proofread correspondence, announcements, meeting summaries, and executive‑level communications.
• Maintain professionalism and discretion when handling confidential, sensitive, or proprietary information.
• Coordinate large, multi‑stakeholder meetings, off‑sites, town halls, and leadership workshops.
• Prepare agendas, compile briefing packages, capture accurate meeting minutes, and ensure timely follow-up on action items.
• Manage travel logistics, itineraries, and expense reconciliation for senior leadership.
• Maintain departmental trackers, workflows, dashboards, and reporting tools.
• Support purchasing, vendor relationships, invoice processing, and budget tracking.
• Lead improvements in administrative processes, document organization, and communication systems.
• Coordinate onboarding for new team members, including access, equipment, training materials, and welcome activities.
• Assist with planning and execution of departmental and cross-functional projects.
• Conduct data gathering, light analysis, and preparation of project updates or status reports.
• Serve as an administrative liaison between leadership and project teams.

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED