Merck & Co, Inc

Senior Data Scientist (Machine Learning & Generative AI)

Merck & Co, Inc$129K — $203K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of experience in data science and machine learning fields.
  • Bachelor's degree required; preferred Ph.D. in relevant fields or master's with 2+ years experience.
  • Extensive knowledge of machine learning algorithms, including supervised and unsupervised learning.
  • Hands-on experience with Python and related libraries, such as TensorFlow and PyTorch.
  • Strong software engineering mindset with an emphasis on high-quality code and documentation.
  • Exceptional communication skills for conveying complex ideas to diverse audiences.
  • Familiarity with Agile methodologies and frameworks.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop innovative machine learning methodologies for data-driven decision-making.
  • Apply data science techniques for tools focused on process monitoring and predictive analytics.
  • Create end-to-end digital solutions, automating data workflows within existing systems.
  • Engage with stakeholders to align analytics solutions with business objectives.
  • Foster collaboration by disseminating knowledge of emerging analytics trends.
  • Lead the development and documentation of analytics applications and processes.
  • Stay updated on best practices and emerging technologies in AI and machine learning.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work arrangements providing flexibility.
  • Exposure to cutting-edge technologies in machine learning and AI.
  • Opportunity to engage in various projects across the organization.
  • Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams.
  • Focus on professional growth through learning emerging trends in data analytics.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Job Summary:

As a Senior Data Scientist, you will leverage your expertise in machine learning model development, generative AI, and software engineering to rapidly prototype and deploy advanced analytics products for our manufacturing division. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including IT, engineering, and operations, to design and implement robust advanced analytics solutions at scale within production systems. You will also engage in ad-hoc consulting roles to support various projects across the organization. Our data science team contributes to different project phases, from ideation and business case development, through data discovery and preparation, to model development, prototyping, and facilitating adoption.

Primary Job Responsibilities:
  • Independently design and develop innovative quantitative methodologies, leveraging different methods and approaches in machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI, to drive data-driven decision-making and influence key initiatives within the company.
  • Apply data science, machine learning, and deep learning techniques to create tools for process monitoring, process optimization, and predictive analytics.
  • Develop end-to-end digital solutions, including automation of data workflows and integration into existing systems.
  • Engage with customers and stakeholders to understand their needs, requirements, expectations, and potential opportunities, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
  • Build and disseminate in-depth domain knowledge of emerging trends in one or more sub-specialty areas of data analytics, fostering collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders.
  • Design, lead, and document the development of analytics applications, platforms, and processes to unlock value through scientific insights.
  • Stay updated on current best practices, methodologies, and technologies in AI, machine learning, and data science landscape, including compliance and ethical considerations.


Required Skills:
  • Extensive knowledge of both traditional supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms, as well as familiarity with advanced deep learning architectures.
  • Proven hands-on experience with Python, including practical skills with libraries such as scikit-learn, Keras, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
  • Familiarity with feature engineering and exploratory data analysis for both structured and unstructured data sets.
  • Knowledge of experiment tracking methodologies and tools to monitor model performance and maintain reproducibility.
  • Exceptional communication skills to effectively convey complex information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • A strong software engineering mindset, emphasizing the importance of producing high-quality code, documentation, and pipelines.
  • A data-centric mindset, focusing on how data can be leveraged to create actionable insights and drive business value.
  • Experience working within Agile frameworks and methodologies.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Understanding of generative AI including large language models and vision language models, RAG, pre-training, and/or fine-tuning for specific applications.
  • Experience with agents, agentic AI platforms (CrewAI, LangGraph, LangChain, AutoGen, Semantic Kernel, Bedrock, Strands, etc), agent tooling and protocols (MCP, A2A), and/or AI coding tools (Claude Code, Cursor, Codex, Open Claw)
  • Familiarity with graph networks, semantic layers, and causal inference.
  • Familiarity with deep learning applications or inference, computer vision, autoencoders, etc.
  • Familiarity with modern MLOps tools and best practices for lifecycle management including CI/CD pipelines, containerization technologies such as Docker, and deploying machine learning models in cloud environments such as AWS, Databricks, or similar platforms.


Education:
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Preferred Ph.D. in chemical engineering, applied mathematics, or other technical fields with expertise in data science and machine learning projects or master's degree in data science, computer science, applied statistics/mathematics, chemical engineering, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant experience in data science and machine learning projects.


Required Skills:
Agile Methodology, Agile Methodology, Applied Mathematics, Business Analytics, Business Case Development, Change Catalyst, Chemical Engineering, Cheminformatics, Compliance Analytics, Containerization, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Data Mining, Data Science, Detail-Oriented, Emerging Trends, Generative AI, Information Architecture Design, Information Systems Engineering, Machine Learning (ML), Modeling Simulations, Pharmacogenetics, Predictive Modeling, Prototyping, Software Tool Development, Stakeholder Engagement {+ 2 more}

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Employee Status:
Regular

Relocation:
Domestic

VISA Sponsorship:
No

Travel Requirements:
No Travel Required

Flexible Work Arrangements:
Hybrid

Shift:
Not Indicated

Valid Driving License:
No

Hazardous Material(s):
N/A

Job Posting End Date:
07/21/2026
*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

About Merck & Co, Inc

Schering-Plough Corporation is a major U.S.-based manufacturer of pharmaceuticals. It operates in three segments: Prescription Pharmaceuticals, Animal Health, and Consumer Health Care. Schering-Plough develops products targeting on allergy, cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular, central nervous system, respiratory system, and more.  It was founded in 1851 by Ernst Christian Friedrich Schering as Schering AG in Germany. Schering-Plough manufactured several pharmaceutical drugs, the most well-known of which were the allergy drugs Claritin and Clarinex, an anti-cholesterol drug Vytorin, and a brain tumor drug Temodar. It also developed drugs targeting on central nervous system and the respiratory system. Schering Plough also owned and operated the major foot care brand name Dr. Scholl's and the skin care line Coppertone. These also became a part of the new company. Schering-Plough was a full member of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), a membership which is also maintained by the new Merck.

Merck & Co, Inc Careers

Join the visionary team at Merck & Co, Inc, a global leader in healthcare dedicated to advancing the world of medicine. As part of our professional community, you'll find dynamic job opportunities that foster innovation and leadership across various fields. Merck & Co, Inc is not just a company; it's a place where you can make a difference.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck & Co, Inc, we are committed to improving global health through groundbreaking research and innovative healthcare solutions. Our team is at the forefront of developing new therapies and vaccines that significantly impact public health worldwide. By joining us, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, using your skills to contribute to projects that save and improve lives around the globe.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a professional position, Merck & Co, Inc offers a range of career paths in environments that promote rapid professional growth and development. Explore job opportunities in research, digital transformation, manufacturing, and more, all while benefiting from a culture that supports diversity and inclusion.

Innovate and Lead

Merck & Co, Inc is an ideal environment for those who lead with curiosity and the drive to innovate. Our leadership is committed to fostering a culture where inventive thinking and collaboration are encouraged, making it a perfect place for professionals who seek to make an impact through their work.

Develop Your Skills

With Merck & Co, Inc, you are not just getting a job; you're gaining access to unparalleled career development opportunities. Enhance your skills through diverse training programs, workshops, and continuous learning courses designed to help you grow at every stage of your career.

Benefits and Culture

We understand that our employees are our greatest asset, which is why we offer competitive benefits designed to support the health and well-being of you and your family. From comprehensive health care coverage and retirement plans to flexible working conditions and wellness programs, our benefits package is designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members.

Join Our Team

Ready to advance your career at Merck & Co, Inc? Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and become part of a company that's dedicated to making a difference.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Engage with us through our careers blog and by participating in networking events and employment fairs. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and the latest news tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Merck & Co, Inc. Join us in our mission to improve health and wellness around the world.
Learn more about Merck & Co, Inc
Size
68,000 employees
Market Cap
$282.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$7 billion
Founded
1668
5 Year Trend
+4.1%
Revenue
$47.9 billion
NASDAQ

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