Assoc. Spclst , Software Engineering

Merck • Rahway, NJ

1d • $71,900 - $113,200 • Hybrid

About The Position

This role focuses on AI Agent Development and Software Engineering, with an entry-level focus on assisting in building and integrating AI agents and AI-powered features into applications. The position involves supporting the implementation of LLM-based use cases, applying prompt engineering techniques, and developing/maintaining backend services, APIs, and application components. The role also includes integrating AI models with enterprise applications, working with data, supporting cloud deployments on AWS/Azure, and contributing to CI/CD pipelines. Collaboration with senior engineers, architects, and product teams within an Agile framework is essential.

Requirements

• 1–3 years of software development experience (or strong academic/project background)
• High School Diploma required.
• Programming knowledge in Python, Java, or similar languages
• Basic understanding of APIs and backend development
• Exposure to Large Language Models (LLMs)
• Exposure to Prompt engineering basics
• Exposure to AI tools/libraries (OpenAI APIs, LangChain, etc.) (academic or project experience acceptable)
• Basic understanding of cloud platforms (AWS/Azure)
• Familiarity with Git and version control
• Familiarity with CI/CD concepts
• Basic understanding of SQL or data querying
• Basic understanding of Data processing concepts
• Basic understanding of API integrations

Nice To Haves

• Containerization basics (Docker – optional)

Responsibilities

• Assist in building and integrating AI agents and AI-powered features into applications
• Support implementation of LLM-based use cases (e.g., chatbots, copilots, automation flows)
• Apply basic prompt engineering techniques under guidance
• Develop and maintain backend services, APIs, and application components
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code following engineering best practices
• Participate in unit testing, debugging, and code reviews
• Support integration of AI models with enterprise applications and data sources
• Work with structured and unstructured data (APIs, documents, datasets)
• Assist in implementing simple retrieval/search workflows
• Contribute to deployment of applications on cloud platforms (AWS/Azure)
• Support CI/CD pipeline execution and automation tasks
• Assist in containerization and environment setup
• Work closely with senior engineers, architects, and product teams
• Participate in Agile ceremonies (sprint planning, stand-ups, retrospectives)
• Communicate progress, issues, and ideas clearly

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• paid holidays
• vacation
• compassionate and sick days
• annual bonus
• long-term incentive

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED