Job DescriptionOur Company is seeking an
Associate Director, Robotics Engineering / Physical AI to lead a portfolio of robotics, autonomous systems, machine vision, and automated material handling initiatives across our manufacturing operations.
This role sits within Global Engineering Solutions (GES) Early Engagement Group and is focused on equipment-based automation and physical AI solutions that improve operational performance, flexibility, and reliability. The position will provide leadership across the lifecycle of multiple programs, from early concept development and technology evaluation through design, implementation, commissioning, qualification, and startup.
The successful candidate will bring both technical depth and change leadership. This is an opportunity to influence the direction of advanced automation at our Company, guide execution across a portfolio of programs, and work closely with internal partners and external suppliers to deliver practical, scalable solutions. The role will collaborate extensively with Digital Manufacturing division , GSEC S&T Organizations, Global MPS and Operations while maintaining primary accountability for the physical automation and robotics solutions themselves.
What you'll do- Lead a portfolio of robotics and autonomous automation programs from concept through implementation.
- Define scope, evaluate technologies, and develop practical solutions aligned to business needs.
- Guide design and deployment of robotics systems and equipment integration.
- Support simulation studies, proof-of-concept development, commissioning, qualification, and startup.
- Direct engineering firms, integrators, and vendors to achieve program objectives.
- Work with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Safety, Automation, Tech Ops and Digital Manufacturing division stakeholders.
- Help establish standards, governance, and roadmap priorities for robotics and advanced automation.
- Coach and develop engineers and support broader adoption of new capabilities.
What we're looking for- 8+ years of experience in robotics, automation, manufacturing engineering, biotech, pharma, or a related field.
- Experience leading robotics or autonomous systems projects in regulated or industrial environments.
- Experience with industrial robotics platforms and integration.
- Experience with machine vision, AI-enabled automation, or autonomous material handling preferred.
- Experience applying Deep Learning / Machine Learning models.
- Experience in GMP or regulated manufacturing environments preferred.
- Experience with commissioning, qualification, validation, and capital project execution.
- Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
- Ability to lead change across functions and influence stakeholders.
- Strong problem-solving skills and sound engineering judgment.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related science field required.
- Advanced degree preferred.
Travel- Up to 50% travel may be required, including domestic and international travel, depending on project needs.
Required Skills: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Artificial Intelligence Technologies, Automation Systems, Capital Project Management, Change Management, Data Analysis, Decision Making, Drug Product Manufacturing, Lean Manufacturing, Manufacturing Scale-Up, Regulatory Compliance, Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Strategic Thinking, Technical Transfer
Preferred Skills: Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.
Employee Status: Regular
Relocation:Domestic
VISA Sponsorship:Yes
Travel Requirements:50%
Flexible Work Arrangements:Hybrid
Shift:Not Indicated
Valid Driving License:No
Hazardous Material(s):n/a
Job Posting End Date:10/3/2026
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