Merck & Co, Inc

Associate Director, Quality Assurance

Merck & Co, Inc$142K — $224K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of relevant work experience in quality engineering and assurance.
  • Deep understanding of medical device regulations including 21CFR820 and ISO 13485.
  • Experience with Design Controls and CAPA processes related to medical devices.
  • Proficient in risk management principles as per ISO 14971/24971.
  • Strong communication skills and knowledge of device development and regulatory inspection.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively across functions.

Responsibilities

  • Represent the Quality function on product development teams for medical devices.
  • Review and approve regulatory documentation for device compliance and quality.
  • Contribute to policy and procedure development for Quality Assurance.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and regulatory standards.
  • Provide guidance on Design Control principles to cross-functional teams.
  • Participate in design and CAPA reviews for combination products.
  • Review and approve verification and validation protocols to ensure regulatory compliance.

Benefits

  • Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.
  • Potential for involvement in high-impact regulatory compliance activities.
  • Opportunity for professional development and growth in a dynamic field.
  • Engagement in cross-functional teamwork, enhancing communication and leadership skills.
  • Exposure to current trends in medical device innovation and quality standards.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Position Overview - Basic Functions & Responsibility Essential function(s) includes, but is not limited to:

Reporting to the Senior Director of Device Quality and Regulatory (DQ&R), the Associate Director Quality Engineering & Quality Assurance is responsible for independent compliance support of Medical Devices including the device constituent part of Combination Products. This position will interact with cross functional teams working with all levels of employees. Activities will include developing, documenting, and maintenance of technical business solutions, reviewing and approving medical device/combination product documentation to support regulatory filings and audits of data, policies, procedures, and systems to ensure compliance with Medical Device (21CFR 820s) and Combination Product current Good Manufacturing ruling (21CFR part 4), Device Risk Management (ISO 14971) and other worldwide regulations and company requirements. This position provides Device quality engineering and quality assurance support and leadership to ensure successful quality oversight of prospective medical devices and medical device combination products.

Primary Activities Primary activities include, but are not limited to:
• Actively represent DQ&R Quality function on commercial and product/core development teams supporting quality issues related to medical devices or the device constituent of a combination product.
• Review and approve Design Control and Device Risk Management documentation for regulatory filings, clinical supply, development, design transfer qualification and post marketing surveillance. Evaluate deficiencies and assess impact on compliance status.
• Contribute to developing/revising policy and procedures for DQ&R Quality and/or supported areas.
• Remain informed of industry trends as described in worldwide regulations and industry standards.
• Provide guidance to our Manufacturing Division and our Research and Development Division device functions and other personnel to ensure end-to-end Design Control principles are implemented effectively.
• Participate in design reviews, CAPA reviews, and ad-hoc technical reviews of combination products.
• Participate in all stages of combo product development including but not limited to oversight of purchasing controls and supplier quality.
• Work with external partners to develop products.
• Review and approve verification/validation test protocols and reports to ensure that the testing is sufficient to meet regulatory requirements and quality objectives.
• Provide input to design and manufacturing documentation including material specifications, drawings, inspection procedures, and manufacturing procedures, to ensure that the resulting products can be adequately manufactured and tested.
• Facilitate translation of customer needs into critical to quality and design input/output requirements, including but not limited to chemical, physical, or performance specifications.
• Lead and manage development of Design and Development File deliverables for medical devices

Skills
  • 7 years of relevant work experience.
  • Extensive knowledge of applicable medical device regulations (21CFR820, 21CFR Part 4, EU MDR, ISO 13485).
  • Experience with Design Controls / CAPA / Purchasing Controls as it related to 21CFR820.
  • Risk Management experience (ISO 14971/24971, ICH Q9).
  • Effective communication skills and working knowledge of device development and commercialization, product approval, and/or regulatory inspection experience with medical devices.
  • Must be able to work independently within a cross functional framework and will involve detailed technical writing and review. A high degree of creative thinking, resourcefulness, and networking will be required to coordinate projects or solve problems.
  • Ability to work in a matrix organization and effective written and oral communicator.


Preferred experience and skills:
• Remediation experience is desired.
• Knowledge of current GMPs for combination products.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt or ASQ (American Society for Quality) certifications are preferred.
• Strong understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Documentation Practices (QDP); and project management principles is desirable.
• Lean Six Sigma Principles and tools such as: DOEs, Root cause analysis and/or Problem-solving methods are desired.
• Experience in the use of root cause analysis and applied statistical techniques.

Qualifications:
• A Bachelor's degree in (Science or Engineering or associated fields) with a minimum of 7 years related experience OR a Master's degree (Science or Engineering or associated fields) and 5 years related experience or a Ph.D. (Science or Engineering or associated fields) and 3 years of related experience

US based - NJ/PA or other US location

Travel - Yes,
Required Skills:
Clinical Quality Assurance, Clinical Quality Assurance, Combination Products, Computer System Validation (CSV), Design Thinking, Detail-Oriented, External Partners, GMP Compliance, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Interpersonal Relationships, Leading Project Teams, Lean Six Sigma (LSS), Manufacturing Audits, Manufacturing Compliance, Material Specifications, Medical Device Management, Medical Device Regulations, Medical Devices, Product Development, Project Management, Quality Assurance (QA), Quality Control Management, Quality Improvement Programs, Quality Standards {+ 2 more}

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Employee Status:
Regular

Relocation:
No relocation

VISA Sponsorship:
No

Travel Requirements:
10%

Flexible Work Arrangements:
Remote

Shift:
1st - Day

Valid Driving License:
No

Hazardous Material(s):
No

Job Posting End Date:
07/10/2026
*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the 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.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Engage with us through our careers blog and by participating in networking events and employment fairs. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and the latest news tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Merck & Co, Inc. Join us in our mission to improve health and wellness around the world.
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

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Merck & Co, Inc

More Pharmaceuticals & Biotech Jobs

Find similar Associate Director, Quality Assurance jobs: