Senior Specialist, Learning & Development

Job Description For over 130 years, we have pioneered groundbreaking science. Today, we are driven by continuous innovation to develop breakthrough medicines, vaccines and technology. Rooted in direct experience on the farm and in the clinic, we work hand in hand with our customers every step of the way. Description The Learning & Development Senior Specialist will design and ensure delivery of a fully integrated training ecosystem to support startup and operation of a new aseptic manufacturing facility, including lyophilization, sterile filling, and enabling functions such as engineering and maintenance. The role also serves as a liaison to external education and training providers, ensuring local programs align with the site’s technical and GMP capability needs. Position Responsibilities Develop and execute a facility L&D strategy aligned to startup, commissioning, and operational ramp-up. Build structured learning pathways translating complex systems into practical training for operators and technical staff: Manufacturing (aseptic processing, lyophilisation, visual inspection) Engineering (process, automation, CQV) Maintenance (asset care, calibration, GMP interventions) Quality and enabling functions Align training with asset lifecycle phases (design > CQV > operations). Co‑develop curricula with OEMs, subject matter experts and academic partners aligned to facility start‑up and commercial manufacturing. Leverage OEMs and vendors for specialized technical training content. Establish and manage partnerships with local colleges, universities, and technical institutes to strengthen employer brand and attract talent. Embed training into FAT/SAT, commissioning, and PPQ phases. Capture knowledge from OEM vendors, commissioning and qualification activities, and tech transfer SMEs. Strengthen a culture where technical competence underpins compliance and performance. Other duties as assigned. Competencies Influencing: Ability to partner, collaborate, and impact decisions within the organization. Interpersonal Relationships: Demonstrated skill in applying approaches, tools, and techniques for working with individuals and groups in a constructive and collaborative manner. Oral and Written Communications: Ability to express oneself to provide information to others effectively and in a succinct manner; advanced verbal, written, and presentation abilities; ability to ask thoughtful questions to gain insights, listen, and understand other perspectives. Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Ability to make problems visible, propose viable solutions, and capitalize on opportunities. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Education, or related field. Five (5)+ years of relevant Learning & Development experience. Experience in GMP-regulated environments. Experience developing technical training programs. Strong stakeholder engagement (internal and external). L&D Program design with scalability and sustainability. Preferred Experience working with academic or workforce development partners. Greenfield/startup facility experience. Ability to translate complex systems into effective learning. Adult Learning: Theory and Practice – Experience in applying concepts and practices of adult learning to meet the dynamic needs of the business. Learning Needs Analysis – Proven experience in assessing competency gaps and identifying what people need to learn for successful individual and organizational performance. Required Skills Adult Learning Principles Applied Engineering Blended Learning Solutions Change Management Critical Thinking Cross-Functional Collaboration Decision Making Digital Learning e-Learning Standards Facilitate Training Sessions GMP Compliance GMP Inspection Instructional Design Learning Needs Analysis Online Video Creation Oral Communications Stakeholder Buy-In Stakeholder Engagement Technical Training Technical Writing Technology Transfer Training Delivery Training Evaluations Training Needs Assessment Benefits Medical, dental, vision, and other health‑care benefits for employee and family; retirement benefits including 401(k); paid holidays, vacation, compassionate and sick days. Salary range is $106,200.00 – $167,200.00. Eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable. Hybrid Work Model Effective September 5, 2023, employees in office‑based positions in the U.S. will work a hybrid schedule: three total days on‑site per week, Monday‑Thursday, with Friday designated as a remote‑working day, unless business critical tasks require an on‑site presence. EEO Statement As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit EEOC Know Your Rights, EEOC GINA Supplement. We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together talented, committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively. Job Posting End Date May 22, 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck