Scientist, Clinical Services (Onsite, Weekend Shift)

Our company, a global healthcare leader, is seeking an entry-level Veterinary Associate to join our collaborative, dynamic, and inclusive Laboratory Animal Science Team at the West Point location. The successful candidate will execute study support and veterinary care for large and small animals supporting various research programs. We value collaboration, coordination, and communication, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and a vibrant learning environment where new skills can be honed and innovative solutions explored.

About the role

This position requires weekend coverage with a Saturday through Wednesday schedule or a Wednesday through Sunday schedule. On-site and hands-on study-related lab work will be a crucial part of the role. The ability to apply sound technical skills and animal health knowledge to assigned tasks, often with minimal supervision, is essential.

Responsibilities

• Carry out study support procedures and medical treatment regimens for research animals under the guidance of the veterinarian and research staff.
• Triage weekend emergencies and treat as needed per guidance from the veterinarian.
• Assist in or conduct aseptic surgical procedures, suturing, peri and postoperative care.
• Perform diagnostic radiography and specific imaging techniques and conduct routine clinical pathology procedures.
• Administer injectable and inhalation anesthetic agents under the guidance of a veterinarian.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and well-organized records of animal treatments, procedures, inventories, study data, research protocols, and reports.
• Collaborate effectively as a team player with principal investigators, scientific staff, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, IACUC members, facility managers, and animal care technicians.
• Work cross-functionally on ongoing in vivo discovery research and development projects.
• Excel in interdisciplinary environments and maintain strong communication with colleagues from different fields.
• Under supervision, independently recognize study/project hurdles (operational, technical, and scientific) and propose solutions.
• Manage study timelines and objectives, ensure accuracy of study data within corporate databases and project tracking tools.
• Communicate study results and data interpretation to cross-functional project teams.
• Comply with US and company-specific rules and regulations, e.g., Animal Welfare Act, The Guide, 3R principles, FDA and other regulatory bodies.
• Promote and uphold a culture of diversity, fairness, and inclusion within the laboratory, actively contributing to an environment where all team members feel respected, included, and can perform at their best.
• Work independently and be proactive in seeking opportunities, while also contributing positively to team dynamics.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Animal handling and dosing experience.
• Veterinary Technician certification preferred but not required.
• Demonstrable passion for animal care and welfare.
• Technical and scientific skills and a willingness to understand the R&D process.
• Experience with ocular research techniques and imaging equipment.
• Ability to independently recognize challenges (technical, scientific, or study-related) and provide relevant input for solution/problem solving.
• Proactive, innovative, and solution-oriented mindset.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Demonstrable commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive working environment.
• Independence and initiative in seeking new opportunities as well as being a productive team member.
• Commitment to maintaining high safety and regulatory standards.

Preferred certifications (not required): CVT, ASR, ALAT, LAT, LATg, CMAR.

Skills

• Required: Animal Welfare, Biotechnology Research, Blood Specimen Collection, Clinical Development, Clinical Research, Clinical Trial Development, Equipment Validations, Ethical Standards, Laboratory Documentation, Laboratory Research, Laboratory Techniques, Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist (RLATG), Research Programs, Safety Standards, Use of Laboratory Equipment.
• Preferred: Experience with ocular research techniques and imaging equipment.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $87,300.00 - $137,400.00. 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.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits, including:

• 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.

Schedule

This position requires weekend coverage with a Saturday through Wednesday schedule or a Wednesday through Sunday schedule.

Employee Status: Regular
Travel Requirements: 10%