2026 Future Talent Program - Global Pharmaceutical Operations - External Manufacturing Co-Op

MSD•Rahway, NJ

About The Position

The Future Talent Program features Cooperative (Co-op) education that lasts up to 6 months and will include one or more projects. These opportunities in our Manufacturing Division can provide you with great development and a chance to see if we are the right company for your long-term goals. About the Team The Global Pharmaceutical Operations – External Manufacturing (GPO ExM) organization oversees a worldwide network of external manufacturing partners, ensuring reliable, high-quality supply of medicines to patients around the globe. The team is focused on operational excellence, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement. We are seeking a highly motivated co-op who is passionate about using artificial intelligence & digital solutions to simplify work, improve performance, and help transform how our teams operate day-to-day. Position Overview As a Coop for the GPO ExM team, you will explore, design, and prototype AI/DIGITAL solutions that make daily activities easier and more efficient for employees across external manufacturing operations. You will help identify opportunities where AI/DIGITAL tools (e.g., generative AI/DIGITAL, machine learning, intelligent automation) can: Accelerate decision-making Reduce manual, repetitive tasks Improve data accessibility and insights Enhance collaboration and communication You will work closely with cross-functional stakeholders to understand business needs and demonstrate how AI can be applied in a real-world business setting to improve speed, performance, and overall effectiveness. This role will also partner with digital information technology partners to leverage delivery/engineering tools where applicable.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in a STEM discipline (e.g., Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Information Systems, Operations Research, or related field).
Demonstrated proficiency and hands-on experience with AI or related technologies, such as: Generative AI/DIGITAL tools (e.g., large language models, chat-based AI/DIGITAL assistants) Machine learning / data science concepts Natural language processing, data analytics, or automation tools
Strong technical aptitude and ability to quickly learn new tools, platforms, and technologies.
Proven ability to demonstrate how AI/DIGITAL can be applied in a business context to improve performance, speed, and user experience (e.g., class projects, prior internships, competitions, or personal projects).
Demonstrate awareness of data privacy, security, and responsible AI considerations in AI/DIGITAL use cases
Previous internship and/or coop experience with another corporation.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional, global environment.
High level of initiative, curiosity, and willingness to challenge the status quo.

Nice To Haves

Experience with one or more programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, R, SQL, JavaScript) or low-code / no-code platforms.
Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) or collaboration tools.
Experience working with operational, supply chain, or manufacturing data.
Exposure to process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) or Operations/Manufacturing environments.
Experience working with operations, supply chain, manufacturing in a highly regulated industry

Responsibilities

Identify and assess opportunities to apply AI/DIGITAL within GPO ExM to streamline workflows, reduce manual effort, and enhance decision-making.
Design and prototype AI/DIGITAL-enabled tools, dashboards, or workflows (e.g., generative AI/DIGITAL assistants, document summarization, data analysis helpers, process automation concepts).
Translate business problems into AI/DIGITAL use cases and clearly articulate the potential impact (e.g., time savings, quality improvements, risk reduction).
Collaborate with ExM subject matter experts to gather requirements, understand pain points, and prioritize AI/DIGITAL use cases with the highest value.
Develop proof-of-concept demos or mockups to showcase how AI/DIGITAL can be integrated into current processes.
Analyze and visualize data to provide actionable insights and support recommendations for process improvements.
Prepare and deliver presentations, demos, and documentation to communicate AI/DIGITAL concepts and outcomes to non-technical stakeholders.
Support change management activities by helping to create training materials, quick-reference guides, or best-practice examples for AI/DIGITAL use in the organization.
Stay current on AI/DIGITAL tools, trends, and best practices relevant to operations, external manufacturing, and business transformation.
Design and/or prototype at least one AI/DIGITAL solution for GPO ExM; including documented business impact, with a final end of term presentation to key stakeholders.