Specialist, DDTโLab Automation, Lab Automation / Controls Engineer (SCADA/Ignition) (Onsite)
Merck
September 11, 2026
Full-time
On-site
Rahway, NJ
IT
Role: Laboratory Automation / Controls Engineer specializing in digital lab infrastructure within biopharma R&D. Objectives: develop and deploy SCADA-based automation solutions to connect laboratory equipment, workflows, and data pipelines, fostering scalable, integrated digital environments. Responsibilities: build and enhance the digital backbone of automated labs using platforms like Ignition; translate scientific workflows into scalable automation systems; develop hardware and software components, troubleshoot integration issues, and support system performance improvements. Qualifications: B.S. in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with 2+ years of experience; hands-on experience with SCADA systems (e.g., Ignition), automation in pharma/biotech, scripting (Python, C#, etc.), and systems integration. Preferred: familiarity with process control devices (PLCs, microcontrollers), data science/AI/ML concepts, and understanding of pharma R&D or manufacturing environments, especially in biologics or vaccine development. High-value specifics: focus on digital transformation in biopharmaceutical labs, supporting process R&D, analytical development, and manufacturing workflows; 10% travel; based in Rahway, NJ; role involves cross-functional collaboration with lab automation, digital engineering, and IT teams.