Become an Intern at Merck

Your journey starts today.

Welcome to a team of explorers, makers, thinkers and bold dreamers.

Learn more

Foreign National or VISA Holders:

It is your responsibility to obtain work authorization (CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) by working with your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) and confirm with your University Recruiter once you receive approval (no later than your scheduled start date).
Upon offer acceptance, please reach out to your school's Designated School Official (DSO) for guidance/assistance on obtaining CPT/OPT/STEM OPT work authorization.
Review: Form I-9 Acceptable Documents | USCIS  and ensure you have the necessary documents to complete your I-9, in hand, for your first day. Please note, you are not eligible to begin your internship/co-op until you are able to present the necessary documents and verify your I-9.

Transportation

If you plan to use public transportation, many sites offer a free shuttle from designated stations. Some shuttles use the Tripshot app to reserve spots, which you’ll be able to access once you officially start, however, on your first day you can let the shuttle driver know that you are a new intern/co-op.
Rahway
West Point/Upper Gwynedd
For additional questions please reach out to your Hiring Manager.

Onboarding

Onboarding typically begins about 30-60 days before your start date. At that time, you will receive an e-mail from our New Employee Administration (NEA) with instructions. The timing may vary slightly due to the large volume of interns/co-ops being onboarded. Please be sure to check your e-mail (including your junk folder) regularly during this time. Onboarding typically begins about 60 days before your start date. At this time, you will recieve an e-mail from our new empoyee administration (NEA) with instructions and an overview of the pre-employment contingency check process. The timing may vary slightly due to the heavy volume of interns being onboarded over the summer. Please be sure to check your e-mail (including your junk folder) regularly during this time.

We utilize a global background check program to conduct background screenings on newly hired and rehired employees. This program helps us make informed hiring decisions to support our business needs while adhering to local laws and regulations.
The contingency check includes a background screen (education and employment) and a drug screen. This process can take up to 3 weeks to complete. Note that you will need to be in the U.S. to complete the drug screen. 
You will be notified once you successfully complete all required pre-employment contingencies. If you have questions about this process, please reach out to your New Employee Administration (NEA) representative directly.

First day logistics

Once all contingencies have been cleared, you will receive a "First Day Letter" electronically from the New Employee Administration (NEA) team, which will include where to report on your first day. Your manager will update you if there is any additional information you need. In preparation for your first day, allow yourself extra time for arrival in case of unexpected delays. It is also helpful to have your manager's name and phone number in case of emergencies.

Intern events and networking

There are several in-person and online events hosted for interns and co-ops throughout the summer. Some are enterprise-wide and others are hosted by specific sites or departments. Overall, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to network with peers and learn about Merck. Yes! Throughout the summer, there are several events for you to attend. Some of the events are organized at an enterprise level (all interns/co-ops) by university relations, some are specific by site and some may be organized by your department. Overall, there are plenty of opportunities to network with your fellow peers and learn about Merck!

Post-internship

Your W-2 will be mailed to the updated address on file in Workday by the end of January following your internship or co-op. You may also access your W-2 form at https://my.adp.com  during that time.  To register using a non-Merck device, click on “New user? Get Started”. The registration passcode is merckco-ipay.

We are excited for you to join our team!

Our awards.

Beware of hiring scams. Review our Applicant Notice.

This careers website is intended for Residents of the United States, Canada & Puerto Rico. Residents in other markets, please visit our MSD Careers page. Information on this site is for the purpose of presenting career opportunities at our organization and gives our audience a view of our culture and growth opportunities. Our company is an equal opportunity employer, committed to fair and inclusive employment practices and welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.

Your journey starts today.

We are looking forward to having you join our team!

Frequently asked questions

Foreign National or VISA Holders:

Transportation

Onboarding

First day logistics

Intern events and networking

Post-internship

We are excited for you to join our team!

Our awards.

Connect with us on social.

Beware of hiring scams. Review our Applicant Notice.

Your journey starts today.

We are looking forward to having you join our team!

Frequently asked questions

Foreign National or VISA Holders:

​​Transportation

Onboarding

First day logistics

Intern events and networking

Post-internship

​​​​​​​​​​​Excited to start but don’t have all the answers?

Every new hire experience is different.Reach out to your manager and/or New Employee Administration (NEA) consultant to learn more.

We are excited for you to join our team!

Our awards.

100 Most Admired Companies

TIME100 Health 2026

America’s Best Large Employers

America's Most Innovative Companies

America’s Most Charitable Companies

Just 100 Index (JUONE) Top Performer

Join our talent community today.

Connect with us on social.

Beware of hiring scams. Review our Applicant Notice.

Transportation

Excited to start but don’t have all the answers?

Every new hire experience is different.

Reach out to your manager and/or New Employee Administration (NEA) consultant to learn more.