Senior Specialist, Process Automation

Merck•Upper Gwynedd Township, PA
•$117,000 - $184,200•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Specialist in Process Automation is part of the Digital Manufacturing Operations organization at the West Point site. This role leads a team of engineers providing automation system support and expertise for the Hepatitis A vaccine manufacturing facility, enabling reliable, compliant production and supply of quality vaccines. The position serves as the primary automation Subject Matter Expert and represents the automation function on the Integrated Process Team (IPT) leadership team. The role supports manufacturing operations and automated systems in a regulated environment, ensuring compliance with System Development Life Cycle (SDLC), GMP, safety, environmental, and other applicable requirements. It collaborates with business, technical, quality, and manufacturing colleagues, and supports internal and external audits and inspections. The position also contributes to site and global digital transformation initiatives and develops strategies to sustain and optimize automated systems through future expansion, replacement, or upgrades.

Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Seven or more years of experience in process automation, IT/OT, or equivalent.
  • Technical and operational expertise in DeltaV DCS, PLC, SCADA, HMI, Computer System Validation (CSV), and System Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
  • Strong technical writing capabilities.
  • Knowledge of the S88 Batch Standard.
  • Knowledge of regulatory GxP requirements.
  • Knowledge of equipment and process validation.
  • Technical and non-technical problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interface effectively with colleagues at all levels of the organization and with external customers and vendors.

Nice To Haves

  • Pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturing process experience is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and mentor a team of two engineers providing process automation support for the Hepatitis A vaccine manufacturing facility.
  • Direct and prioritize the process automation team's workload, ensuring compliance with SDLC, GMP, safety, and environmental regulations.
  • Collaborate with other functions within the Integrated Process Team through ownership of automated systems and Subject Matter Expertise.
  • Support manufacturing activities on the shop floor.
  • Design and implement process control improvements and corrective actions.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve automation issues and events.
  • Participate in deviation investigations.
  • Administer automated control systems and sustain a state of Permanent Inspection Readiness.
  • Apply leadership skills to foster a high-performing, collaborative team environment.
  • Serve as the primary Subject Matter Expert and represent the automation function on the IPT leadership team.
  • Communicate daily with business, technical, and quality representatives through the tier process.
  • Support process automation inquiries during internal and external audits and inspections, speaking knowledgeably about automation in cGMP processes and manufacturing operations.
  • Continuously evaluate automated systems and develop strategies to optimize and ensure their quality and stability through future expansion, replacement, or upgrade.
  • Directly support site and global initiatives related to digital transformation and improving how West Point Digital Manufacturing Operations does business.

Benefits

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Other insurance benefits for employees and family
  • Retirement benefits, including 401(k)
  • Paid holidays
  • Vacation
  • Compassionate days
  • Sick days
  • Annual bonus eligibility
  • Long-term incentive eligibility, if applicable
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