Merck & Co, Inc

Scientist, Analytical R&D (Microbiologist)

Merck & Co, Inc • $87K — $137K *
Rahway, NJ 07065In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS in Microbiology or related Biological Sciences with 3+ years of GMP microbiology experience; or MS with 2+ years experience.
  • Proven laboratory experience in microbiology, specifically in pharmaceutical contexts.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills for effective collaboration.
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills to work within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Knowledge of current microbiology guidelines and procedures.

Responsibilities

  • Lead environmental monitoring in cleanroom areas, ensuring GMP compliance.
  • Conduct various microbiological tests, including bioburden and endotoxin testing.
  • Perform and maintain environmental monitoring instruments and sampling techniques.
  • Analyze and interpret environmental monitoring data to identify deviations.
  • Document all sampling activities in accordance with ALCOA and data integrity principles.
  • Participate in investigations related to microbiological incidents and deviations.
  • Support internal and external compliance audits for quality assurance.

Benefits

  • Opportunity for career growth in a global team environment.
  • Engage with a culture emphasizing strong ethics and integrity.
  • Work in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team setting.
  • Contribute actively to improving human health through microbiological research.
Full Job Description
Job Description

The Analytical Research and Development Microbiology group has an opening for a Scientist - Microbiologist. Join us and experience our culture first-hand one of strong ethics & integrity, diversified experiences, exceptional science, and a resounding passion for improving human health. As part of our global team, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with talented and dedicated colleagues while developing and expanding your career.

In your role as Scientist, you will be a critical part of the Analytical Research and Development Microbiology team with responsibilities including leading the rapidly growing pipeline via collaboration with stakeholders to deliver on critical data in a good manufacturing practices (GMP) microbiology laboratory, including finished products testing, utilities, and environmental monitoring. While working within a fast-paced, integrated, multidisciplinary team environment, the candidate is expected to have a strong working knowledge of microbiology laboratory practices and procedures in a GMP environment including microbiology data review and quality procedures. Prior Environmental Monitoring experience is a plus This position is based at the Rahway, New Jersey site.

This position is a 2nd Shift schedule.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Perform routine viable and non-viable Environmental Monitoring of classified cleanroom areas (Grad A-D), including surfaces, air, and equipment.
  • Conduct active air, passive air (settle plates), surface sampling, in accordance with site EM programs and GMP requirements.
  • Operate and maintain EM instruments (e.g., viable air samplers, particle counters, RODAC plates, isolator/BSC environmental sampling tools).
  • Execute aseptic sampling techniques to ensure data integrity and contamination-free sample collection.
  • Perform utility sampling/testing (WFI, purified water, clean steam) and support routine water system monitoring.
  • Perform microbiology laboratory testing associated with EM samples, including bioburden, microbial identification, and endotoxin testing.
  • Trend, analyze, and interpret EM data; escalate atypical or out-of-trend (OOT) results and support investigations.
  • Participate in deviation investigations, root cause assessments, and CAPA development related to environmental or microbiological events.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of sampling activities in compliance with ALCOA and data-integrity principles.
  • Conduct microbiology finished goods testing and biological indicator (BIs) testing
  • Support of sterile operations within the quality control department including utilizing isolator for sterility testing, conduct method suitability testing, endotoxin, microbial enumeration, media / reagent quality control testing, Experience with testing in clean room environments preferred
  • Conduct the execution, procedure, results, and conclusions of experiments in a detailed and organized manner following ALCOA and data integrity principles
  • Partner with internal stakeholders and partners, including Quality, Pipeline, and Operations.
  • Perform second scientist review microbiology experiments in line with GMP expectations
  • Support internal and external compliance audit activities.
  • Conduct other job duties as per management assignments/business requirement.
  • Be flexible weekday work hours and weekend support as needed


Education Minimum Requirements:
  • BS Degree with 3+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience, with direct microbiological testing GMP experience.
  • MS Degree with 2+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience, with direct microbiological testing GMP experience.
  • Degree in Microbiology or related Biological Sciences, or equivalent.


Required Experience and Skills
  • A proven record of microbiology laboratory experience.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Interpersonal skills, are necessary to qualify for this role.
  • Knowledge and experience of microbiology testing in context of, environmental monitoring, aseptic manufacturing, and utilities testing in a GMP environment
  • Knowledge of current microbiology industry guidelines and compendia


Preferred Experience
  • Knowledge in sterile, nonsterile and aseptic manufacturing and associated GMP product testing
  • Experience in supporting quality investigations in the microbiology discipline
  • Experience with MODA, SAP, Veeva, LIMS is a plus.


#AR&D

Required Skills:
Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Data Integrity, Deviation Investigations, Environmental Monitoring, Fast-Paced Environments, GMP Compliance, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), Laboratory Techniques, Microbiological Test, Problem Solving

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Employee Status:
Regular

Relocation:
No relocation

VISA Sponsorship:
No

Travel Requirements:
No Travel Required

Flexible Work Arrangements:
Not Applicable

Shift:
2nd - Evening

Valid Driving License:
No

Hazardous Material(s):
N/A

Job Posting End Date:
06/23/2026
*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.

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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
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Net Income
$7 billion
Founded
1668
5 Year Trend
+4.1%
Revenue
$47.9 billion
NASDAQ
MRK
* Ladders Estimates

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