Sr. Mechanical Engineer - Project Management

MSD • De Soto, KS

1d

About The Position

Join a premier research‑intensive biopharmaceutical organization at the forefront of delivering innovative health solutions. We are seeking a Sr. Mechanical Engineer / Assistant Project Manager to support the design and delivery of mechanical systems for our Desoto, KS facility. This role combines mechanical (HVAC, piping, plumbing) design with project coordination, budget support, and construction oversight. You will work closely with end users, design-build partners, OEMs, and internal engineering and operations teams to turn business requirements into practical, robust engineering solutions. From design reviews and construction support to startup and handover, you’ll play a key role in ensuring systems are technically sound, safe, compliant, and ready for reliable operation. This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to large, multidisciplinary capital projects while building your expertise in a highly regulated, cutting-edge biopharmaceutical environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
• 5+ years of experience supporting engineering projects and/or multiple capital construction projects valued at $1M or greater
• Demonstrated ability to develop engineering specifications (URS/FRS/DDS), read/interpret drawings and P&IDs, and lead FAT/SAT and CQV activities
• Proven experience establishing and managing schedules, and change control; proficiency with MS Project and office productivity tools
• Strong problem solving and root-cause analysis across safety, compliance, automation, equipment, and process domains
• Excellent communication, leadership, stakeholder management, and team facilitation skills; ability to influence across functions and levels
• Ability to work in manufacturing environments with exposure to temperature extremes, noise, moving mechanical parts, and production chemicals
• Required Skills: Construction Drawings, Construction Engineering, Engineering Design, Mechanical Design Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Design, Project Engineering, Schematic Design

Nice To Haves

• Mechanical and /or Electrical Engineering design experience
• Experience in USDA-regulated and/or pharmaceutical manufacturing sites and capabilities
• PMP (Project Management Professional) or equivalent project management certification
• Lean/Six Sigma training or certification
• Experience with SAP or similar CMMS/ERP for parts, maintenance history, and asset data
• Working knowledge of end-to-end supply chain processes and their impact on engineering projects
• Advanced English; strong presentation skills and business acumen
• Preferred Skills: Project Management

Responsibilities

• Design HVAC, mechanical piping, and plumbing systems for new builds and renovations.
• Perform load and system sizing calculations using industry‑standard tools.
• Produce construction documents and models using AutoCAD, Revit (plus Plant 3D/Navisworks as needed).
• Evaluate mechanical/electrical options and recommend cost‑effective, constructible solutions.
• Apply applicable codes and standards (e.g., mechanical code, IPC, IFGC, cleanroom/aseptic guidelines).
• Assist with managing project scope, schedule, budget, and deliverables.
• Develop budgetary M/E estimates from programmatic and schematic design information.
• Coordinate with other disciplines, contractors, and clients throughout design and construction.
• Review RFIs, submittals, and shop drawings; support change order evaluation and negotiations.
• Provide scheduling input and help sequence work to meet project milestones.
• Support field construction activities to verify compliance with design intent.
• Conduct on‑site assessments of existing mechanical equipment and systems and prepare recommendations.
• Participate in construction quality assurance, including site reports and issue tracking.
• Help develop and implement quality control processes and tools.
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to continuous improvement of engineering workflows.

Benefits

• The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.
• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.
• More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

What This Job Offers

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