Job Description
Position:Pharmaceutical Production Engineer
Company:Merck Ethiopia
Location:Goba, Ethiopia
Experience:3-5 years in pharmaceutical manufacturing or related process engineering
Education:Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Engineering or a related discipline
Employment Type:Full-time
Industry:Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Department:Manufacturing
Salary:SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Merck Ethiopia is a leading global healthcare company dedicated to improving health outcomes through innovative medicines, vaccines, and biopharmaceutical solutions. With a strong presence across Africa, Merck Ethiopia operates state‑of‑the‑art facilities that adhere to the highest international quality standards. The company invests heavily in research, development, and sustainable manufacturing practices, creating a dynamic environment for professionals who are passionate about making a tangible impact on public health. As part of Merck’s commitment to local talent development, the Goba site serves as a strategic hub for pharmaceutical production, supporting both domestic distribution and regional export markets.
Job Overview
The Pharmaceutical Production Engineer will be responsible for overseeing the end‑to‑end manufacturing process of sterile and non‑sterile drug products. This role ensures that production runs are efficient, compliant with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and aligned with Merck’s rigorous quality standards. The engineer will collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including Quality Assurance, Validation, Supply Chain, and Research & Development, to drive continuous improvement initiatives and support new product introductions. For more information about Merck’s career opportunities, visit our main portal at https://ethiopiajobssearch.com.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, execute, and monitor daily production schedules for multiple product lines.
- Ensure compliance with GMP, SOPs, and regulatory requirements throughout the manufacturing process.
- Identify and troubleshoot process deviations, implementing corrective actions promptly.
- Collaborate with Validation and Quality Assurance to qualify equipment and processes.
- Lead continuous improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to increase yield and reduce waste.
- Maintain accurate batch records, production logs, and equipment maintenance documentation.
- Support technology transfer activities for new products and scale‑up projects.
- Participate in risk assessments and root‑cause analyses for process failures.
- Provide technical training and mentorship to production operators and junior engineers.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and generate performance reports for senior management.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, including aseptic and non‑aseptic production.
- Proficiency in GMP regulations and FDA/EMA guidelines.
- Experience with process analytical technology (PAT) and automation systems.
- Excellent problem‑solving and analytical abilities.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills across multidisciplinary groups.
- Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement tools.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight production deadlines.
- Proficient in MS Office and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Engineering, or a closely related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in GMP, Lean Six Sigma, or Project Management are considered a strong advantage.
Experience
Applicants should have 3‑5 years of hands‑on experience in a GMP‑regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. Experience with sterile product lines, equipment qualification, and process validation is highly desirable.
Salary
The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 150,000 to 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and annual salary reviews are part of the compensation package.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
- Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
Training
- On‑boarding program covering GMP, safety, and Merck’s corporate culture.
- Continuous technical training on advanced manufacturing technologies.
- Leadership development tracks for high‑potential engineers.
- Access to Merck’s global e‑learning platform and mentorship networks.
Working Environment
Merck Ethiopia provides a modern, clean, and safety‑focused manufacturing facility equipped with cutting‑edge technology. The work environment promotes collaboration, innovation, and a strong safety culture. Employees benefit from a supportive team atmosphere and opportunities to engage in cross‑functional projects that enhance both personal and professional growth.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through our online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For additional guidance on applying for positions across Africa, refer to the following resources: https://egyptjobsearch.com/job-vacancy-in-egypt/ and https://tanzaniajobsearch.com/job-vacancy-tanzania/. Selected applicants will be contacted for an initial interview, followed by technical assessments and final discussions with senior leadership.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Merck Ethiopia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.