Merck & Co, Inc

Associate Director, Internal Auditing- Hybrid

Merck & Co, Inc$129K — $203K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Science, IT, or Engineering; Advanced degree preferred.
  • 8+ years in pharmaceutical, biopharma/biologics, or related industry.
  • Experience in quality assurance, computer system validation, quality control, and manufacturing.
  • Extensive knowledge of FDA and EU GMP regulations and ICH guidelines.
  • Strong leadership abilities and experience leading audits.
  • Ability to travel between sites (e.g., West Point, PA and Rahway, NJ).
  • Proficient in digital tools and electronic quality systems.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and conduct comprehensive internal audits of GMP facilities and related systems.
  • Issue reports summarizing audit findings and track action closure.
  • Develop metrics and KPIs to assess quality performance and report trends to management.
  • Maintain expert knowledge of GMP requirements and provide guidance on compliance standards.
  • Develop and harmonize processes to ensure regulatory compliance across the organization.
  • Support GMP readiness for new facilities and laboratories.
  • Prepare and assist during Health Authority inspections and audits.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work arrangements
  • Strong focus on compliance and quality culture
  • Opportunity for cross-functional collaboration
  • Support for continuous improvement initiatives
  • Travel opportunities to multiple sites
Full Job Description

Job Description

The Associate Director of Internal Auditing position reports to the Audit Management and Reg Intel Lead in Development Quality.  The Associate Director is responsible for developing, implementing and maintaining robust processes and procedures used to ensure continuous compliance of investigational medicinal products with cGMPs and relevant international regulations (e.g., USA, EU).  The Associate Director will lead and support activities that include, but are not limited to internal audits, GMP readiness, Health Authority inspections, Quality Risk Management and general compliance initiatives.

The primary responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to:

  • Independently lead and support comprehensive internal audits and assessments of GMP facilities and business applications / systems supporting clinical supplies manufacture, testing, storage and distribution to ensure compliance to relevant regulations, policies, and procedures. 

  • Issue reports summarizing findings and track resulting actions to satisfactory closure to maintain appropriate risk posture for the site. 

  • Develop and maintain metrics and key performance indicators to measure trends and improve quality performance. Raise unresolved issues or trends to relevant management. Present outcomes to management and governing Quality Councils when applicable.

  • Maintain an expert level of knowledge about GMP requirements and industry trends as described in applicable worldwide regulations. Provide guidance and interpretation of GMP, regulatory, and compliance standards.

  • Develop and harmonize procedures and processes that promote, facilitate and ensure compliance with worldwide regulations and industry standards in support of the company’s objectives.

  • Lead and support GMP readiness activities for new manufacturing facilities, laboratories and support areas.

  • Support the preparation and execution of Health Authority Inspections and our Company Audits as needed.

  • Promote a culture of quality and operational excellence.  Proactively identify, develop and implement opportunities for improvement and work across multiple organizations to influence and implement solutions.

  • Represent Development Quality on inter-departmental and cross-functional teams, ensuring the flow of information and providing Quality guidance.

  • Support the Risk Management program as needed by participating in the risk identification and remediation for risk assessments.

Education:

  • Required: Bachelor's Degree in appropriate Science (chemistry, biology, biochemistry, microbiology), IT or Engineering discipline

  • Preferred: Advanced degree

Required:   

  • Minimum 8 years of experience in the pharmaceutical, biopharma/biologics or related industry.

  • Experience in multiple functional areas such as quality assurance, computer system validation, quality control, manufacturing, research and development, supply chain, facilities and engineering.

  • Extensive knowledge of FDA and EU GMP regulations as well as ICH guidelines.

  • Demonstrated knowledge and direct experience with the application of System Document Lifecycle requirements in GMP areas.

  • Experience leading audits.

  • Ability to travel between sites (e.g., West Point, PA and Rahway, NJ).

  • Strong leadership skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams.

  • Experience using electronic quality systems to monitor, report and track quality tasks and key performance indicators.

  • Excellent attention to detail.

  • Proficient with digital tools and computer applications; competency in MS PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

  • Ability to independently prioritize and manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and meeting business objectives.

Preferred:   

  • Familiarity with R&D or clinical supply areas and processes.

  • Experience with computer system applications (e.g., Delta-V and/or PAS-X, SAP, electronic laboratory notebooks, Veeva, LIMS, Empower).

  • Experience using AI tools and applications.

  • Demonstrated experienced using Quality Risk Management tools.

  • Experience leading and/or supporting US and EU health authority inspections.

  • Superior collaboration and teamwork skills.

  • Understanding of lean sigma principles and tools.

  • Sterile manufacturing experience and knowledge of US and EU aseptic processing guidelines.

#eligibleforERP

Required Skills:

Computer System Validation (CSV), GMP Compliance, Medical Device Regulations, Quality Systems Compliance, Regulatory Compliance

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply

Current Contingent Workers apply

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

No relocation

VISA Sponsorship:

No

Travel Requirements:

25%

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Hybrid

Shift:

1st - Day

Valid Driving License:

Yes

Hazardous Material(s):

N/A

Job Posting End Date:

08/10/2026

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFOREthe listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

About Merck & Co, Inc

Schering-Plough Corporation is a major U.S.-based manufacturer of pharmaceuticals. It operates in three segments: Prescription Pharmaceuticals, Animal Health, and Consumer Health Care. Schering-Plough develops products targeting on allergy, cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular, central nervous system, respiratory system, and more.  It was founded in 1851 by Ernst Christian Friedrich Schering as Schering AG in Germany. Schering-Plough manufactured several pharmaceutical drugs, the most well-known of which were the allergy drugs Claritin and Clarinex, an anti-cholesterol drug Vytorin, and a brain tumor drug Temodar. It also developed drugs targeting on central nervous system and the respiratory system. Schering Plough also owned and operated the major foot care brand name Dr. Scholl's and the skin care line Coppertone. These also became a part of the new company. Schering-Plough was a full member of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), a membership which is also maintained by the new Merck.

Merck & Co, Inc Careers

Join the visionary team at Merck & Co, Inc, a global leader in healthcare dedicated to advancing the world of medicine. As part of our professional community, you'll find dynamic job opportunities that foster innovation and leadership across various fields. Merck & Co, Inc is not just a company; it's a place where you can make a difference.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck & Co, Inc, we are committed to improving global health through groundbreaking research and innovative healthcare solutions. Our team is at the forefront of developing new therapies and vaccines that significantly impact public health worldwide. By joining us, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, using your skills to contribute to projects that save and improve lives around the globe.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a professional position, Merck & Co, Inc offers a range of career paths in environments that promote rapid professional growth and development. Explore job opportunities in research, digital transformation, manufacturing, and more, all while benefiting from a culture that supports diversity and inclusion.

Innovate and Lead

Merck & Co, Inc is an ideal environment for those who lead with curiosity and the drive to innovate. Our leadership is committed to fostering a culture where inventive thinking and collaboration are encouraged, making it a perfect place for professionals who seek to make an impact through their work.

Develop Your Skills

With Merck & Co, Inc, you are not just getting a job; you're gaining access to unparalleled career development opportunities. Enhance your skills through diverse training programs, workshops, and continuous learning courses designed to help you grow at every stage of your career.

Benefits and Culture

We understand that our employees are our greatest asset, which is why we offer competitive benefits designed to support the health and well-being of you and your family. From comprehensive health care coverage and retirement plans to flexible working conditions and wellness programs, our benefits package is designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members.

Join Our Team

Ready to advance your career at Merck & Co, Inc? Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and become part of a company that's dedicated to making a difference.

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Learn more about Merck & Co, Inc
Size
68,000 employees
Market Cap
$282.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$7 billion
Founded
1668
5 Year Trend
+4.1%
Revenue
$47.9 billion
NASDAQ

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