Sr. Specialist, Operational Readiness Lead

Merck · Elkton, VA

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Manufacturing OperationsFull-time$117k–$184kCompany career page

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Role summary

Senior Specialist supporting operational readiness at a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Virginia. Develops technical curricula, manages contingency planning, and enables workforce competency across utilities and compliance systems without direct operational ownership.

What they're looking for

High school diploma/GED plus 8 years industrial utilities operations, or associate degree plus 6 years, or bachelor's degree plus 4 years
Proven experience designing and delivering formal technical curriculums or operator qualification programs
Demonstrated success collaborating with salaried and unionized personnel in labor relations
Experience designing and executing operational readiness drills and business continuity planning
Current state licenses and certifications in wastewater, potable water, and ASOPE relevant to facility classification
Deep technical knowledge of boiler, chiller, cooling tower, HVAC, compressed air systems and digital controls
Track record of developing others, fostering teamwork, and driving culture change

What you'll be doing

Design and implement structured technical curriculum replacing informal operator onboarding practices
Develop, maintain, and execute contingency planning procedures and disaster recovery simulation drills
Support root cause analysis and after-action reviews for utility interruptions and compliance near-misses
Align technical training with current air, wastewater, and water permit compliance requirements
Partner with operations on SOP reviews, equipment integration, and workforce competency assessments

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