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 your work authorization (CPT/OPT/Stem OPT) by working with your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) and present it to Merck in timely manner, (i.e., 2-3 weeks) prior to your internship/co-op start date, but no later than your scheduled start date.
Upon offer acceptance, please reach out to your school's Designated School Official (DSO) immediately for guidance/assistance on obtaining CPT/OPT/Stem OPT work authorization.
Review the linked website: Form I-9 Acceptable Documents | USCIS and ensure you have the necessary documents to complete your I-9, in hand, prior to your first day. Please note, you are not eligible to begin your internship until you are able to present the necessary documents and verify your I-9.

Transportation

Onboarding

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 global background check program to conduct background screenings on newly hired and rehired employees. This program helps us make informed, quality hiring decisions to support our business needs while adhering to local laws and regulations.

The contingency check comprises of a background screen (education information and employment background) and drug screen. This process can take up to 2-3 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 directly to your NEA representative.

First day logistics

Once all contingencies have been cleared, you will recieve a "First Day Letter" electronically from NEA which will include where to report on your first day. Your manager will be sure to update you if there is any additional information regarding first day logistics that you need to know. Allow yourself some 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

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

To access your Merck W-2 online, navigate to http://portal.adp.com . Click "Sign Up" at the bottom, and then "I Have A Registration Code"

Registration code: merckco-ipay

Once you're registered, you should be able to click on Pay & Taxes and they can review your W-2 online. If you have additional questions, call 908-423-4357, option 2 for HR, then follow the prompts for Former Employees.

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.