Scientist, DSCS Digital Technologies–Laboratory Automation, Automation Systems Engineer (Hybrid)

MSD•Rahway, NJ

8h•$87,300 - $137,400•Hybrid

About The Position

The Scientist will help build next-generation data-rich, connected laboratory environments within the Development Sciences and Clinical Supply Digital Technologies organization. The role designs and deploys laboratory automation solutions that bring together robotics, instrumentation, and software, augmenting existing laboratory systems and enabling scientists to work faster and generate higher-quality data. The Scientist works closely with researchers, engineers, and digital technology specialists to translate experimental needs into integrated, scalable workflows that connect instruments, robotics, and data systems. The position leads automation projects from concept through deployment, improves existing platforms, and provides hands-on support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists. The primary location is Rahway, New Jersey, with a hybrid work arrangement and 10% travel. The position is a regular employee role with first-shift/day hours. Domestic relocation is available; visa sponsorship is not offered.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Engineering (such as Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in one of these areas with at least 2 years of relevant experience.
Experience in a laboratory-based setting working with laboratory automation and equipment integration.
Experience with scripting or programming using accepted best practices, including version control, design patterns, and clean code.
Understanding of (bio)pharmaceutical process research and development, drug product development, and/or analytical development.
Ability to work independently and entrepreneurially on cross-functional teams.
Effective scientific collaboration and communication skills, including the ability to navigate conversations with technicians and vendors.

Nice To Haves

Scripting or programming experience in one or more of Python, C#, VBA, JavaScript, or R.
Experience with automation edge devices and controllers, such as PLCs or microcontrollers.
Experience with industrial SCADA or orchestration software such as DeltaV, Ignition, or WinCC OA.
Experience with benchtop automated reactor systems such as Sartorius Ambr250.
Experience with laboratory automation software, firmware, hardware, and integration into end-to-end solutions.
Experience integrating laboratory instruments with custom or commercial software solutions.
Ability to recognize, design, prototype, and deploy innovative laboratory automation technologies.
Understanding of data science and AI/ML concepts and their application to laboratory automation.
Wet-lab experience in (bio)pharmaceutical drug substance, drug product, and analytical research and development.
Experience with commercial laboratory notebook software such as Benchling or Signals.
Motivation to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and demonstrate scientific curiosity.
Deep interest in understanding how systems work; self-described maker, builder, or tinkerer.

Responsibilities

Design laboratory automation systems integrating robotics, instrumentation, and software.
Partner with researchers to understand experimental needs and translate them into scalable automated workflows.
Collaborate with experts in automation, data science, modeling, IT, and digital engineering.
Lead projects from concept through deployment, working across teams and stakeholders to deliver outcomes.
Continuously improve automation platforms to enhance performance, usability, and reliability.
Integrate robotic platforms with laboratory equipment and data systems to enable end-to-end digital workflows.
Provide hands-on support, troubleshoot systems, and train scientists who use them.