Senior Specialist, Engineering

Job Description Our Animal Health Division is investing $895 million in expanding our manufacturing and research & development facilities in De Soto, Kansas — the state’s largest economic development project to date. You will join a world-class team at our Center of Excellence in the Animal Health Corridor, contributing directly to the production of veterinary products that improve animal health and welfare globally. As a Senior Specialist of Engineering, you will serve as a hands-on SME supporting the expansion and long-term operation of a new manufacturing facility. You will contribute to facility startup, commissioning, qualification, troubleshooting, procedure development, and operational readiness while partnering closely with cross-functional teams to ensure safe, compliant, and reliable operations. Responsibilities Serve as subject matter expert for critical systems including Aseptic Filling Lines, Freeze Dryers, HVAC and Utilities equipment related to the manufacturing process. Support the design and construction of the new pharmaceutical filling and lyophilization at the De Soto site. Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) for equipment. Support the commissioning and qualification of the facility. Work closely with internal stakeholders, equipment suppliers, and contractors to ensure a timely and compliant startup. Troubleshoot and optimize equipment and systems during the startup and ongoing site operation. Assist with training department staff on equipment and systems. Author Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Preventive Maintenance plans. Partner with Maintenance and Operations to identify opportunities to improve system reliability, maintenance practices, and operational efficiency. Support regulatory audits and inspections, addressing CQV and engineering-related questions. Actively foster a strong safety culture by consistently modeling proper procedures, policies, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Additional duties as assigned Education Minimum Requirement Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering. Required Experience And Skills Five (5) years of experience working in manufacturing and/or engineering in regulated environments. Progressive experience with mechanical systems and equipment and refrigeration. Experience developing process procedures for process equipment. Strong technical aptitude with proven problem-solving skills. Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills. Self-starter who works effectively with minimal guidance, demonstrates strong follow-through, and proactively identifies solutions to support team success. Collaborative nature with strong team building skills. Able to learn from and accept guidance from others. Ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks, prioritize effectively, and consistently deliver high-quality results. Preferred Experience And Skills Relevant design, facilities and/or manufacturing Engineering work experience. Experience supporting the startup of large-scale projects and/or facilities. Understanding of cGMP and experience in USDA or FDA work environments. Knowledge of Lyophilization, Filling Lines and aseptic manufacturing practices. Consistent demonstration of strong collaboration, independent leadership, communication, interpersonal skills, and teamwork Experience with managing multi-discipline projects. Schedule Requirements Able to work Day shift, Monday through Friday as base schedule Off-shift coverage may be required during periods of equipment startup or troubleshooting. Must be willing to travel to equipment suppliers for acceptance testing (FATs) during construction phase of the project. Required Skills Adaptability, Equipment Engineering, GMP Compliance, HVAC Equipment, HVAC Systems, Maintenance Supervision, Manufacturing Engineering, Manufacturing Equipment, Mechanical Engineering, Process Equipment, Process Equipment Design, Refrigeration Engineering, Startup Operations, Sterile Manufacturing, Teamwork, Troubleshooting Preferred Skills Aseptic Filling, Aseptic Manufacturing, cGMP Documentation, cGMP Guidelines, cGMP Regulations, Fill and Finish, Packaging Lines, USDA Regulations We are committed to inclusion and provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit EEOC Know Your Rights and EEOC GINA Supplement. Salary range: $117,000.00 - $184,200.00. The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentives, if applicable. Benefits include medical, dental, vision coverage, retirement benefits (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation, and sick days. More information about benefits is available at Application: You can apply for this role through (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline is listed on this posting. Job Posting End Date: 07/08/2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck