Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Merck, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I applied online, and the turnaround was pretty quick at first: I had an HR phone screen, then soon after a video interview with the hiring manager. After that, I was invited to an onsite at the Rahway campus. I was told it would be the final round for the top candidates, and the onsite itself was packed—about 6 to 7 interviews plus a 45-minute presentation.
My process felt straightforward and structured. I started with HR outreach after applying online, and the interviews leaned heavily on the usual rhythm of “tell me about yourself” and behavioral questions based on past experiences. The questions matched what I’d see on a standard list—things like examples of improving a process and walking through my greatest strengths and weaknesses.
The interview process typically starts with an HR screen followed by a series of technical interviews, often culminating in an onsite with multiple rounds. Candidates noted that the overall timeline can feel drawn out, with significant waiting periods between stages.
Candidates should expect a strong focus on technical competence, including data structures, algorithms, and specific technologies like AWS, Docker, and Node.js. The technical rounds are designed to assess both depth of knowledge and practical application.
Behavioral interviews are common, often featuring standard prompts about past experiences and process improvements. Candidates should prepare to connect their experiences directly to the role and demonstrate how their background aligns with the company's needs.
The pacing of interviews can vary, with some candidates experiencing back-to-back rounds in a single day, leading to a high-pressure environment. Others noted a slower pace with significant waiting, which can contribute to a feeling of uncertainty.
Some candidates reported participating in panel interviews where multiple evaluators assess performance simultaneously. This format can provide a comprehensive evaluation but may also increase the pressure on candidates.
Candidates expressed mixed feelings about communication throughout the process, with some experiencing delays or lack of updates after initial interviews. Clear and timely feedback is a point of concern for many.