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

Merck•Rahway, NJ

1d•$117,000 - $184,200•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Scientist will design and deploy laboratory automation solutions that help scientists work faster, generate higher-quality data, and focus on discovery and innovation. The role develops custom solutions to augment existing laboratory systems and builds integrated systems connecting instruments, robotics, and data to turn complex workflows into seamless processes. Within Development Sciences and Clinical Supply (DSCS) Digital Technologies, the role helps build data-rich, connected laboratory environments by embedding digital capabilities into pharmaceutical development. It works closely with scientists, engineers, and digital technology specialists to integrate hardware, software, and AI-driven tools into laboratory workflows. The position is based in Rahway, New Jersey, with a hybrid work arrangement and day-shift schedule.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field; expected graduation must be no later than December 2026; or a master’s degree in one of these fields with at least 2 years of relevant experience; or a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields with at least 4 years of relevant experience.
Experience in a laboratory 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.
Scientific collaboration and communication skills, including the ability to communicate with technicians and vendors.

Nice To Haves

Experience scripting or programming 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; a maker, builder, or tinkerer mindset.

Responsibilities

Develop automation systems integrating robotics, instrumentation, and software into cohesive, high-performing solutions.
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.
Improve existing 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, troubleshooting, and training to scientists using automation systems.