Specialist , Manufacturing Automation

Merck•Wilson, NC

6d•$87,300 - $137,400

About The Position

First line automation support for assigned line(s)/system(s) and/or engineering projects. Work with plant maintenance, operations and process improvement teams to address line performance issues and implement continuous improvement initiatives. Conduct/support quality investigations related to equipment/system malfunctions and lead corresponding corrective and preventive actions to on-time closure. Lead/support qualification activities as well as associated GMP documentation and automation change controls. Foster an inclusive environment and a safety culture while adhering to our Company's code of conduct, values and competencies. This position requires knowledge and experience in own discipline while still acquiring higher-level knowledge and skills. The position will build knowledge of the company, processes, clients/customers and will solve a range of medium-complex problems while contributing to possible solutions. This position may often work autonomously with a moderate level of guidance and direction. In group work, applies team effectiveness skills, listening and integrating perspectives from across the work group; contributes and adds value to the achievement of team goals. The Specialist, Manufacturing Automation position is responsible for the resolution of automation issues and maintenance of automation systems in compliance with cGMPs, SLC, safety, and environmental regulations. Supports problem analysis/resolution and preventative/corrective actions for automation and shopfloor platforms. Provides guidance on process control, data collection techniques, and failure mode and effects analysis. Ensures adherence to strategies that optimize and ensure quality and stability of automation systems though future expansion, replacement, or upgrades. Partners with stakeholders and global support functions to ensure successful automation system functionality. This position will be an individual contributor within the Automation engineering team reporting to the Manager, Manufacturing Automation.

Requirements

High School Diploma required.
Minimum of three years’ experience in support of IT / Automation support in a manufacturing environment.
Demonstrated working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, Vision Systems and Servo-Drives.
Experience in computer validation and systems lifecycle development methodology.
Experience maintaining automation systems in compliance with SLC, cGMPs, safety, and environmental regulations
Experience authoring and reviewing standard operating procedures, on-the-job-training, and other controlled documents.
Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills with ability to influence and support others through a culture of inclusion, feedback, and empowerment.
Demonstrated project management skills

Nice To Haves

Experience in Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, Problem Solving, and/or Right First-Time methodologies.
Experience with automation technology for packaging equipment.
Experience with reject/verification systems and serialization systems.
Working knowledge of the regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical applications.
Data Integrity acumen.
Cyber Security acumen.

Responsibilities

Providing automation support for assigned line(s)/system(s) and/or engineering projects within our production manufacturing facilities.
Supporting the following as the discipline requires: On-floor support of manufacturing activities.
Leading key automation support and troubleshooting for manufacturing equipment and packaging systems (i.e. PLC, Vision Systems) in Manufacturing Operations.
Providing automation technical support for site implementation and on ongoing management of serialization/aggregation (track and trace), Systech Guardian and above site point of contact for SAP ATTP application.
Using technical knowledge to assure the efficient operation of variety of automated processing and information technology systems.
Authoring/Maintaining technical documentation (Project Plans, Master Specifications, Requirements, Qualifications, Change Controls, Standard Operating Procedures, etc).
Providing guidance on process control and data collection techniques.
Providing automation technical support to ensure compliance with Data Integrity directive.
Identifying and implementing process/equipment improvements and manufacturing efficiencies.
Maintaining automation systems in compliance with SLC, cGMPs, safety, and environmental regulations.
Understanding and supporting all GMPs, safety, and environmental regulations. Periodically reviews automation documents, preventive maintenance, and SOPs to ensure compliance with GMP and safety.
Developing and supporting quality investigations and corrective actions for automated equipment/systems to resolve complex problems and prevent reoccurrence.
Communicating periodically with immediate manager about status of area of responsibility.
Participating in audits and training programs in the area of responsibility.
Partnering proactively with key customers and stakeholders (operations, quality and plant/facilities/utilities maintenance groups) while being open and approachable with a friendly, positive and professional attitude.
Communicating daily with operation, technical, and quality representatives within area of support through the tier process.
Leading projects by engaging team members, setting clear expectations, utilizing strong communication skills and exercising clear decision-making.
Regularly and clearly communicating project plans, risks and strategy to all key stakeholders, customers and governance committees.
Sharing knowledge on engineering principles and other areas of expertise as needed.
Providing automation support on various shifts/weekends in support of Manufacturing Operations.