Sr. Project Manager

Merck Group$115K — $175K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 5-7+ years of experience in life sciences, chemistry, engineering, business, or a related field
  • Experience leading cross-functional product development projects within a structured stage-gate framework
  • Formal project management training
  • Experience managing external partners and suppliers
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare and deliver executive-level updates and management reviews
  • Proven ability to develop and execute integrated project plans across all project phases
  • Experience managing project scope, timelines, risks, and changes to deliver against defined objectives.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute integrated project plans across design, development, validation, and launch phases
  • Drive milestone progression and gate readiness in alignment with Product Development Processes
  • Establish roles, governance, and maintain comprehensive project documentation
  • Manage scope, risks, and changes, including mitigation and contingency planning
  • Apply structured planning with iterative execution within development phases
  • Provide regular status updates and insights to support data-driven decisions
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performing team environment focused on delivery and continuous improvement.

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Retirement contributions
  • Other perquisites.
Full Job Description
Your Role:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Project Manager to join our Innovation Project and Portfolio Management team within Process Solutions. In this role, you will lead cross-functional teams through stage-gate product development, from concept to commercialization, ensuring delivery against time, quality, and cost objectives. You will drive stakeholders alignment and maintain clear, consistent communication throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Developing and executing integrated project plans across design, development, validation, and launch phases
  • Driving milestone progression and gate readiness in alignment with Product Development Processes
  • Establishing roles, governance, and maintaining comprehensive project documentation
  • Managing scope, risks, and changes, including mitigation and contingency planning
  • Applying structured planning with iterative execution within development phases
  • Providing regular status updates and insights to support data-driven decisions
  • Fostering a collaborative, high-performing team environment focused on delivery and continuous improvement
  • This role requires independent judgment, strong prioritization, and the ability to drive teams toward successful outcomes.


Who You Are

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree with 5-7+ years of experience in life sciences, chemistry, engineering, business, or a related field
  • Experience leading cross-functional product development projects within a structured stage-gate framework
  • Formal project management training
  • Experience managing external partners and suppliers
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare and deliver executive-level updates and management reviews
  • Proven ability to develop and execute integrated project plans across all project phases
  • Experience managing project scope, timelines, risks, and changes to deliver against defined objectives.
  • Experience applying structured planning alongside iterative execution within development phases
  • Experience managing stakeholders, governance processes, and project reporting according to organizational requirements.


PreferredQualifications:
  • Master's degree in life sciences, chemistry, engineering, business, or a related field
  • PMP certification
  • Proven ability to lead complex, global teams and drive alignment across diverse stakeholders
  • Growth mindset with agile thinking, enabling adaptability, continuous learning, and effective decision-making in evolving environments.
  • Demonstrated leadership in fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment that promotes psychological safety and engagement.


This role is based in either St. Louis, MO or Bedford, MA.

Pay Range for this position: $115,800- $175,000. The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.

About Merck Group

Merck Group Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join Merck Group, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science, and performance materials. Merck Group offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for both seasoned experts and those at the start of their career journey.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck Group, every team member contributes to breakthrough innovations in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics. The company's commitment to diversity and innovation fuels its leadership in various sectors, driving growth and transformation globally. Merck Group’s career paths are diverse, offering positions that challenge individuals to use their skills in new ways every day, supported by robust training programs and development opportunities.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Merck Group is not just about jobs; it's about building a career. With a vast array of positions, from research and development to marketing and sales, the company is keen on hiring and nurturing talent to lead industry transformation. Merck Group’s dedication to professional growth is evident in its comprehensive benefits package and performance management processes that aim to maximize individual potential.

Internship Programs

Starting with an internship at Merck Group can be a pivotal step in securing a prosperous career. Interns gain invaluable industry experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in projects that offer real-world applications of their studies. Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities, providing a seamless transition from education to professional employment.

Inclusive Culture and Leadership

Merck Group is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive. The company’s leadership is committed to creating a workplace where diverse ideas lead to innovative outcomes. Merck Group also offers diversity training to ensure all team members are equipped to contribute to the company’s inclusive goals.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at Merck Group are encouraged to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career trajectories. The company hosts various networking events, workshops, and seminars that are designed to hone skills and foster connections within the industry. Leadership development programs are also a cornerstone, preparing employees for future roles of increased responsibility.

Stay Connected with Merck Group Careers

Interested candidates can explore open positions that match their skills and interests through the Merck Group careers page. The company values curious, creative, and solution-driven team players who are eager to make an impact.

Keep Up to Date

Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights from Merck Group professionals. These resources are invaluable for those looking to advance their careers and stay ahead in a competitive job market.

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SEARCH MERCK GROUP JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

Merck Group is continuously looking for individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead in the global marketplace. Whether through full-time positions, internships, or leadership roles, Merck Group offers a career path filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and leadership.
Learn more about Merck Group

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