MSD Interview Questions
& Process

The HR interaction was okay, but the interview itself was the worst. I felt I did well and answered everything. But then HR called accusing me of using an AI bot. I asked for a face-to-face to clear it up, and HR said they'd check with the interviewer. Later, HR called back saying the interviewer confirmed I wasn't technically skilled enough. It was weird hearing two different reasons. It felt like the interview was just for show, with no real intention to evaluate me fairly. I think there might have been internal politics, like a referral already being in place. If you have a direct referral, they go through; otherwise, random candidates like me get treated badly. Total waste of time and super unprofessional.

Initial HR screening via phone or video call to confirm your experience, languages, and motivation. Basic questions about availability, salary expectations, and company knowledge. Technical test or online assessment (depending on the role) may include psychometric tests, practical cases, Excel tests, SQL, data analysis, or role plays (for sales roles). Interview with the hiring manager for a deeper dive into your competencies, previous projects, and cultural fit, often using STAR method questions (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

We had 4 interviews: a pre-interview, one with my direct manager, a technical interview, and one with the whole team. Communication was a bit shaky initially regarding the job description because I applied 3 months prior to getting the first interview. However, the team was very open to answering questions and transparent about their process and their interest in me joining. We discussed team dynamics and atmosphere extensively. Outlook was also a key focus.

I interviewed for the Community Ecosystem Engagement Lead role and enjoyed talking with the team. The job was described as a community and clinic engagement position focused on equity, which I was excited about because of the mission and the chance to make a real difference in HIV work. However, after a panel interview, I didn't get any updates about what happened next or a decision. Weeks went by, and the only communication I got was an automated salary expectations survey, then another generic survey congratulating me on "reaching the interview round" way after my interview. This was confusing and disappointing. What made it worse was seeing LinkedIn posts about many people being hired for the same role in other areas, most of whom seemed to be internal Merck employees from HIV sales. While internal moves are fine, it felt like external candidates were included in the process without knowing how many spots were already taken by internal people. Because the role was presented as equity-focused, not sales-focused, in the interviews, I wondered if I was a good fit from the start. I wish there was more upfront honesty about what Merck was really looking for and if this was a real external hiring process. I still respect Merck's mission, but this experience raised concerns about how the company handles external candidates, especially for roles related to equity and community engagement.