I applied online. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Merck (West Point, PA) in Sept 2011
Interview
It was the most efficient interview and hiring process I have ever encountered. The 1:1 interview took about a half day with a one-hour teleconference with HR on a separate day. Offer was extended to me a few days later. The key is that they really know what they are looking for to fill the position and don't waste any time on decision making process.
Interview questions [2]
Question 1
Describe my past expereience in dealing with difficult people
Disorganized. Interview did not seem to know what the role they were hiring for should do. Communication and followup process was rough. Pretty disappointing experience for such a big company.