Sr. Specialist, Manufacturing Automation

As a Sr. Specialist in Manufacturing Automation, you will be at the forefront of advancing Digital Shop Floor technologies, collaboration, and leadership within your organization. Your primary focus will be on the automation systems installed globally across Animal Health vaccine, biologics, and small molecule manufacturing areas. Your responsibilities will include providing technical guidance on PLC and SCADA technologies, leading sub-teams, implementing proof of concepts, and consulting on solutions. Additionally, you will support site operational teams in addressing day-to-day challenges related to lifecycle management and work closely with various stakeholders to ensure high operational efficiency of key assets. Collaboration with suppliers to establish a cohesive technology roadmap will also be a key aspect of your role. **Key Responsibilities:** - Provide technical guidance on PLC and SCADA technologies - Lead sub-teams and implement proof of concepts - Support site operational teams in addressing day-to-day challenges - Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure high operational efficiency - Work closely with suppliers to establish a cohesive technology roadmap **Qualifications Required:** - Good understanding of applying PLC equipment control strategies and SCADA use cases, especially in life sciences and pharmaceutical manufacturing - Direct experience with Rockwell and/or Siemens PLC and HMI platforms - Experience with various SCADA systems - Understanding of industrial cyber-security best practices for ICS systems - Strong communication skills - Ability to work in global teams and support global time zones - Experience in pharmaceutical, biological, or bulk-manufacturing facilities - In-depth understanding of the GMP validation life cycle In addition, you must have a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, a minimum of 10 years of manufacturing automation or related experience, and strong working experience with PLC systems, preferably Rockwell and/or Siemens. You should also have experience with SCADA systems, including key industry leaders such as Factory Talk, Wonderware, Siemens, and Inductive Automation. An understanding of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and IT infrastructure related topics is also required. The position may require an average of 10% travel globally. Preferred Skills: - Accountability - Audit Management - Automated Manufacturing Systems - Automation - Business Process Improvements - Communication - Data Management - Global Team Collaboration - GMP Compliance - Information Technology (IT) Infrastructure - Operational Efficiency - Problem Management - Quality Management - Real-Time Programming - SCADA Control Systems - SCADA System Design - Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) - Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) - Systems Architecture - Systems Development Lifecycle (SDLC) Please note that Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. If you believe you meet the qualifications and are excited about the opportunity to lead in Manufacturing Automation within the Animal Health sector, we encourage you to apply before the job posting end date of 11/7/2025.,