Senior Specialist, DDT –Lab Automation, Lab Automation / Controls Engineer (SCADA/Ignition)

MSD • Rahway, NJ

3d • Onsite

About The Position

In the Development Sciences and Clinical Supply (DSCS) organization, we believe digital is the force multiplier that enables faster experiments, smarter decisions, more robust supply chains, and is ultimately redefining how we bring medicines to patients. Within DSCS, the DSCS Digital Technologies (DDT) team is building the next generation of data-rich, connected lab environments—where hardware, software, and AI-driven tools work together to accelerate pharmaceutical development. Our goal is simple but ambitious: embed advanced digital capabilities into the DNA of how we work. We believe this future starts with an effective foundation of laboratory tools: innovative robotics, process analytical technology (PAT), high-throughput technologies, reliable instrumentation, and integrated systems that seamlessly transition data from the physical labs to the digital world. We believe innovation is fueled by diverse teams that come together to build technologies that truly impact how our scientists conduct research. We’re looking for a Senior Specialist to help make this vision real. We are seeking a Senior Specialist, Laboratory Automation / Controls Engineer to join our Lab Automation team in Rahway, NJ. In this role, the candidate will help us execute towards our goal of automated and connected laboratories through the utilization and deployment of laboratory SCADA systems and orchestration platforms. The candidate will leverage industry standard and emerging technologies such as DeltaV or Ignition in concert with operational technologies to enable integration, orchestration, and visualization of laboratory systems and workflows. This position will work collaboratively across laboratory automation, digital engineering, and IT teams to play a hands-on role in building foundational digital infrastructure that connects laboratory equipment, automation systems, and data pipelines into cohesive, scalable solutions aligned with our future vision.

Requirements

• A B.S. in an Engineering (i.e. Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Computer Science, Robotics, Mechatronics, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related field with at least 6 years of relevant experience
• Experience with SCADA or orchestration software (DeltaV, Ignition, WinCC OA, etc)
• Previous automation experience supporting process development or production.
• Experience with scripting/programming following accepted best practices (version control, design patterns, clean code)
• Demonstrated ability to work in an entrepreneurial and independent manner on cross-functional teams
• Efficient scientific collaboration and communication skills with the ability to navigate conversations with end-users, technicians, and vendors

Nice To Haves

• Experience with scripting/programming in one or more of the following: Python, C#, VBA, JavaScript, R
• Previous automation experience supporting process development or production of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, or vaccines.
• Experience with automation edge devices and controllers (PLC, microcontrollers, etc)
• Ability to recognize, prototype, and deploy innovative technologies in laboratory automation
• Understanding of data science and AI/ML concepts and their application to automation systems
• Understanding of (bio)pharmaceutical process research and development, drug product development, and/ or analytical development
• Experience with manufacturing equipment, process control, tuning, networking, data analysis
• Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity
• Deep interest and desire to understand how systems work. Self-proclaimed maker, builder, tinkerer
• Understanding of IT networking: system architecture, infrastructure integration, and deployment approaches

Responsibilities

• Build the digital backbone of automated laboratories by developing SCADA-based (e.g. Ignition) solutions that connect equipment, workflows, and data into cohesive systems
• Translate scientific workflows into scalable systems by partnering with researchers and automation engineers to convert laboratory needs into robust digital implementations
• Develop across the operations technology platform stack , including back-end architecture (in collaboration with IT), equipment modules, user interfaces, and orchestration logic
• Solve complex integration challenges by applying systems-level thinking across software, automation, and laboratory workflows
• Connect the ecosystem by integrating instruments, automation platforms, and data systems to enable end-to-end digital workflows
• Continuously improve platform capabilities to enhance performance, reliability, usability, and maintainability
• Empower the organization by training and upskilling colleagues on laboratory SCADA and orchestration core capabilities and development best practices
• Build for sustainability by creating clear documentation and reusable design patterns that support long-term scalability

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• paid holidays
• vacation
• compassionate and sick days

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior