Specialist, Technical Project Management (Hybrid - NJ)

Job description

Job Description The Technical Project Manager (TPM) is responsible for delivering digital and automation scope within capital projects across the Digital Manufacturing Division MVT portfolio. This role leads defined project scopes or workstreams, ensuring the successful implementation of digital systems across the project lifecycle—from design through commissioning. The TPM collaborates with cross-functional teams and partners to integrate automation, data, and manufacturing execution systems that enable facility startup, operational readiness, and manufacturing capability. This role operates within established project governance structures and contributes to delivery across a complex, multi-project portfolio. Primary Responsibilities Project Execution Lead delivery of digital scope for assigned projects or workstreams across: Front-End Loading (FEL), Detailed Design, Execution and construction, Commissioning & Qualification (C&Q) Manage scope, schedule, cost, and risks for defined project areas Track progress against milestones and ensure alignment with overall project plan Digital Scope Delivery Execute defined digital scope components, including: Process automation platforms (e.g., DeltaV, PLC systems), Data integration and reporting solutions, Manufacturing systems (e.g., MES, historians) Support development of scope documentation, estimates, and deliverables Ensure quality and completeness of technical deliverables Systems Integration Coordinate integration activities across: Automation systems, OEM equipment and packaged systems, Site and enterprise data platforms Support resolution of technical integration issues and dependencies Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with: Engineering, Automation, and IT teams, Site stakeholders and operations, External vendors and system integrators Facilitate coordination across teams to ensure aligned execution Governance & Reporting Support project governance processes: Stage-gate reviews (FEL, design, execution checkpoints), Internal PMO reporting requirements Provide regular updates on status, risks, and issues Maintain project documentation in alignment with PMO standards Operational Readiness Support Contribute to ensuring systems are ready for: Startup and commissioning, Validation and qualification, Transition to operations Support alignment with site readiness and business objectives Role Expectations Scope & Autonomy Manages defined project scopes or workstreams within small to medium capital projects Works within established processes and governance frameworks Receives direction on complex issues while independently managing day-to-day execution Complexity Supports delivery of medium-complexity digital and automation scopes Coordinates across multiple stakeholders and technical disciplines Influence Engages with project team members, site stakeholders, and vendors Supports alignment across technical and functional teams Decision-Making Makes decisions within assigned scope and project boundaries Escalates risks, constraints, and cross-project impacts appropriately Required Qualifications HS Diploma required. Experience supporting project delivery within pharmaceutical, biotech, or regulated manufacturing environments Knowledge of: Automation platforms (e.g., DeltaV, PLC systems), Manufacturing digital systems (MES, data integration, reporting tools), Demonstrated ability to manage project scope, schedule, and deliverables Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting capital projects across lifecycle phases (FEL through C&Q) Familiarity with project governance frameworks and stage-gate delivery Exposure to GMP, validation, and data integrity requirements Experience working with external vendors and system integrators Key Competencies Project Management Execution Technical Coordination and Systems Integration Stakeholder Communication Risk Management and Issue Resolution Collaboration and Teamwork Working Relationships Reports to: Capital Project Delivery Lead / Program Manager Interfaces with: Digital Manufacturing Division / MVT stakeholders, Engineering, Automation, and IT teams, Site leadership and operations, External partners and suppliers Success Measures Delivery of assigned digital scope on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards Effective coordination of system integration and technical deliverables Clear and accurate reporting of project status and risks Contribution to successful project startup and operational readiness MSJR #eligibleforerp Required Skills: Applied Engineering, Audit Management, Business Process Improvements, Capital Projects, Data Integrity, Data Management, Digital Project Management, GMP Compliance, IT Automation, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Problem Management, Process Automations, Project Documentation, Project Governance, Project Management, Quality Management, Real-Time Programming, Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), Technical Projects Preferred Skills: Current Employees apply HERE Current Contingent Workers apply HERE 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 click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process. As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit: EEOC Know Your Rights EEOC GINA Supplement​ We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together, talented, and committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively. Learn more about your rights, including under California, Colorado and other US State Acts The salary range for this role is $87,300.00 - $137,400.00 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 https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits. You can apply for this role through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (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 loc