Sr. Scientist, Engineering (University Recruitment) - Onsite

Merck KGaA Darmstadt Germany • Rahway, NJ

122d • $114,700 - $180,500 • Onsite

About The Position

The Chemical Engineering Research & Development department (CERD), part of the Process Research and Development organization, is seeking highly motivated individuals who are looking for an opportunity to work in a fast-paced job that provides a high degree of technical responsibility. This position involves hands-on process development/scale-up work performed at scales spanning the range from laboratory scale to commercial manufacturing scale. Under scientific and administrative direction, an engineer in this role conducts independent research which involves conceiving, designing, planning, and implementing advanced experiments aimed at achieving research goals related to process development, technology development, and production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API). The candidate may also have the opportunity to manage process development and/or manufacturing activities at external suppliers. The engineer will be expected to exhibit a mindset of safety and quality compliance, which will include following current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs), and participating in risk assessments, deviation investigations, and Good Documentation Practices (GDocP). A high level of innovation, creativity, and self-initiative along with the ability to plan and organize activities are expected. Successful candidates will be required to communicate regularly, clearly, and with confidence as they discuss technical problems, support pilot plant operations, and interface with cross-functional colleagues/customers.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering (or comparable) from an accredited college/university by June 2026.
• Experience performing lab-based research/process development in a Chemical Engineering-related area.
• Strong background in the theory and practice of Chemical Engineering unit operations, particularly in chemical synthesis, separation processes, or crystallizations.
• Highly effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Good organizational, interpersonal, writing, and time management skills.

Nice To Haves

• Direct experience with pharmaceutical drug substance process development.
• Familiarity with concepts and application of cGMP and GDocP during pharmaceutical development and production.
• Experience with statistical experimental design (i.e., Design of Experiments) and process modeling.
• Experience with organic chemical synthesis and wet chemistry.
• Familiarity with Process Analytical Technologies (PAT) and/or data-rich experimentation.
• Background with Chemical Engineering-related technology development.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research related to process development and technology development.
• Design, plan, and implement advanced experiments for the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API).
• Manage process development and/or manufacturing activities at external suppliers.
• Exhibit a mindset of safety and quality compliance, including following cGMPs.
• Participate in risk assessments, deviation investigations, and Good Documentation Practices (GDocP).
• Communicate technical problems and support pilot plant operations.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree