# Director, Operations - API

Hiring organization: [Merck](https://career.thegoodapps.co/organizations/merck)

Canonical page: https://career.thegoodapps.co/jobs/47496ae2-6ce7-4020-a65b-9750294aea47

Listed on Merck's own careers site. Applications go to them directly.

- Employment type: full time
- Seniority: Director
- Location: Elkton, VA
- Salary: 173200 – 272600 USD per year

## Summary

Lead the operational and technical strategy for a new small molecule pharmaceutical manufacturing facility's API production, overseeing site ramp-up, team development, and the establishment of operating systems from the ground up. This role suits experienced manufacturing leaders with deep expertise in regulated environments who are energized by building high-performing organizations and driving operational excellence during critical growth phases.

_Our summary, not Merck's wording._

## Skills named

Change Management, Data Analysis, Lean Six Sigma, Organizational Design, Process Optimization, Production Planning, Project Management, Regulatory Compliance, Supply Chain Planning

## Required

- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related scientific/technical discipline
- 10+ years in pharmaceutical or regulated manufacturing environments
- Leadership experience in manufacturing, technical operations, quality operations, engineering, or production planning
- Direct and indirect team leadership experience
- Strong knowledge of cGMP and quality systems
- Experience with operational planning or site ramp-up activities
- Ability to manage complex environments and multiple priorities
- Financial stewardship and resource planning experience
- Lean Six Sigma or structured problem-solving capability
- Effective communication and change leadership skills

## Nice to have

- Master's degree in Science, Engineering, Business, or related field
- Small molecule API manufacturing experience
- Prior manufacturing site start-up or transformation experience
- Experience developing operating models and governance systems
- Lean Six Sigma certification
- Matrixed global manufacturing environment experience
- Proven talent development and succession planning track record
- Capacity, capital, and supply planning experience
- Inspection readiness and deviation management expertise

Apply on Merck's site: https://msd.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/SearchJobs/job/USA---Virginia---Elkton/Director--Operations---API_R408630-1