Merck & Co, Inc

Associate Methods Specialist

Merck & Co, Inc$71K — $113K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, Virology, or a related biological science.
  • 1-3 years hands-on bench experience with emphasis on in vitro bioassay development.
  • Experience in animal health environments such as Quality Control, R&D, or Technical Support.
  • Developing expertise in at least one bioassay platform (e.g. ELISA, virus titration).
  • Strong technical writing skills for protocols and reports.
  • Effective communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

  • Support complex data analysis to identify method issues.
  • Perform bench-level remediation on various test platforms.
  • Author method remediation protocols and regulatory submissions.
  • Support post-remediation activities and method performance verification.
  • Participate in and lead cross-functional teams for method transfer.
  • Perform capability assessments and implement training plans.
  • Provide hands-on training during method transfers and oversee documentation.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision healthcare benefits for employees and family.
  • Retirement benefits including a 401(k).
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick days.
  • Comprehensive insurance package.
Full Job Description

Job Description

As a Methods Specialist, you will be part of a world-class team, contributing directly to the production and testing of veterinary products that improve animal health and welfare globally.  You will collaborate closely with Quality Control, Manufacturing Operations, Bioprocess Technology Solutions, Regulatory Affairs, Statistics, and Analytical Technology Solutions across US sites to align priorities, expectations and deliverables.  Our singular focus is to empower those who care for animals, helping them manage their vital responsibility with confidence.  Because when it comes to animal health, no one sees it like we do.

Role Responsibilities:

  • Support complex data analysis and trending to identify non-robust or out-of-specification methods.  Conduct biomaterials assessments, inventory reviews, and document gap analyses to support remediation actions.

  • Perform bench-level remediation across multiple test platforms, including live bacterial and virus titration/identification and ELISA for complex multivalent vaccines and in-process materials, working under guidance from senior team members.

  • Author method remediation protocols, validation reports, and regulatory submissions for USDA review and approval with oversight from senior staff; update internal and regulatory procedures as required.

  • Support post-remediation activities such as change control assessments and verification of sustained method performance.

  • Participate in and, when appropriate, lead cross-functional teams for site-to-site analytical method transfer project work, coordinating tasks, timelines and deliverables with support from senior staff.

  • Perform gap assessments of site capabilities – technical skills, instrumentation, and laboratory operations – and help implement remediation or training plans to enable successful transfers and ongoing performance.

  • Provide hands-on training during method transfers (technical execution and instrumentation use) and oversee transfer documentation protocols, validation reports and supporting documents with support from senior staff.

  • Support post-transfer monitoring and support to confirm method robustness and to resolve residual issues.

  • Collaborate closely with Quality Control, Manufacturing Operations, Bioprocess Technology Solutions, Regulatory Affairs, Statistics and Analytical Technology Solutions across US sites to align priorities and expectations.

  • Use internal project management systems to track progress, manage risks and report metrics with guidance from senior staff.

  • Present technical updates, findings and recommend risk mitigations at team and regional meetings as needed.

Education Minimum Requirement:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, Virology, or a related biological science.

Required Experience and Skills:

  • 1-3 years hands-on bench experience with an emphasis on in vitro bioassay development, testing and troubleshooting.

  • 1-3 years of experience in animal health environments (Quality Control, R&D and/or Technical Support), with familiarity with USDA regulations and requirements.

  • Developing subject matter expertise in at least one bioassay platform (e.g. ELISA, virus titration, HA/HI).

  • Developing skill sets in bioassay data analysis, trending and interpretation.

  • Strong technical writing skills with ability to learn how to prepare protocols, reports and related laboratory documentation.

  • Effective communicator with experience collaborating across functions.

Preferred Experience and Skills:

  • Experience performing or troubleshooting analytical methods for complex animal health vaccines and in-process materials.

  • Capability to learn how to design and develop methods to meet USDA regulatory expectations.

  • Practical knowledge of bioassay experimental design.

  • Familiarity with analytical technologies such as imagers and liquid handlers.

  • Experience presenting technical results to cross-functional stakeholders.

Required Skills:

Analytical Problem Solving, Analytical Problem Solving, Bioinformatics, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Business Process Improvements, Change Management, Cost Efficiency, Data Trends, Document Management, Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Equipment Maintenance, Equipment Set Up, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), In Vitro Research, Laboratory Instrumentation, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Techniques, Machinery Operation, Manufacturing Operations, Performance Monitoring, Process Analytics, Process Improvements, Process Optimization, Production Planning {+ 10 more}

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply

Current Contingent Workers apply

US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:

Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities. Please if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.

The salary range for this role is

$71,900.00 - $113,200.00

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.

The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits.  Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at .

You can apply for this role through (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline for this position is stated on this posting.

San Francisco Residents Only: We will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Los Angeles Residents Only: We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance

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:

No relocation

VISA Sponsorship:

No

Travel Requirements:

10%

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Hybrid

Shift:

1st - Day

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

n/a

Job Posting End Date:

09/1/2026

*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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