Tech, Operations

Merck • Elkhorn, NE

3d • $48,600 - $76,600 • Onsite

About The Position

The Upstream Processing Tech position is at the company's Animal Health facility in Elkhorn, Nebraska, which is expanding operations to manufacture animal vaccines and biologics. The role supports production teams using cell culture, filling, and packaging technologies. It includes operating assigned filling and freeze-drying processes for finished product and diluents in compliance with established operating procedures.

The technician performs sterile production work, prepares cell and viral cultures, sanitizes designated areas and equipment, troubleshoots equipment, and maintains production documentation and inventory transactions. The work takes place in small laboratories alongside other technicians and requires aseptic gowning; some operations require wearing a respirator. The position is a first-shift, Monday–Friday role, with overtime.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member with integrity, precision, accomplishment, motivational ambition, respect, and inclusion.
• Ability to operate manufacturing equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.
• General knowledge of reading, mathematics, U.S. customary and metric systems, and computer skills.
• Ability to communicate, cooperate, and train other employees in a manufacturing environment.
• Successful completion of a Physical Abilities Test.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree or bachelor's degree in a science-related field.
• One year of relevant manufacturing experience and a basic understanding of manufacturing procedures, techniques, and equipment.
• Mathematical aptitude.
• Working knowledge of mechanics and ability to troubleshoot line equipment.
• Working knowledge of cGMP and inventory control concepts.
• Understanding of aseptic techniques and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Maintain product quality by following company and departmental standards and procedures.
• Perform sterile operations according to Standard Production Processes and Standard Operating Procedures, maintaining concurrent, legible, and consistent documentation.
• Prepare cell and viral cultures in flasks and roller bottles in large quantities.
• Sanitize or sterilize designated areas and equipment, using cleaners and attending to detail.
• Troubleshoot and adjust equipment as needed.
• Perform SAP goods-issue and goods-receipt transactions and cycle-count activities.
• Stage assigned equipment and components for operations.
• Provide leadership for Tier 1 processes and area technicians, and inform the area Lead and Manager as needed.
• Maintain documentation and perform other duties as assigned.
• Maintain the area through 5S housekeeping management.
• Review and audit area batch records and process documentation daily.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision healthcare, and other insurance benefits for employees and family.
• Retirement benefits, including 401(k).
• Paid holidays.
• Vacation.
• Compassionate and sick days.
• Annual bonus eligibility.
• Long-term incentive eligibility, if applicable.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED