Merck Files State Notice for 54 Job Layoffs at Rahway Campus
Business·September 9, 2026

Merck Files State Notice for 54 Job Layoffs at Rahway Campus

Maria Torres · Union County Life

Pharmaceutical giant Merck and Company has submitted a formal state labor notice disclosing fifty-four position cuts at its major Rahway operational facility. The workforce reduction was submitted under the New Jersey Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act.

The affected roles are based at the company headquarters and research complex along East Lincoln Avenue in Rahway. Union County Life confirmed that the workforce adjustments form part of broader operational realignments and cost reduction measures across global divisions.

New Jersey WARN filings require large employers to provide advance notice to state labor authorities and municipal officials prior to mass layoffs. The mandated notification period ensures affected employees receive advanced warning and access to state job placement services, unemployment assistance, and career transition resources.

Merck remains one of the largest private employers and economic anchors in Union County, maintaining extensive research, development, and administrative operations in Rahway. Local officials monitor site filings to gauge municipal tax impacts and evaluate regional employment trends within the life sciences sector.

Impacted workers seeking career transition guidance or state unemployment support can contact the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development at six zero eight two nine two seven seven zero zero or visit nj.gov/labor.

Photo Credit: NJ.com

FAQ

Q: What is a WARN notice in New Jersey?

A: A WARN notice is a legally required advance notification that large employers must file with state labor agencies before executing mass workforce reductions or facility closures.

Q: How many positions are affected by the Merck layoffs in Rahway?

A: Merck submitted a filing disclosing fifty-four position reductions at its Rahway campus.

Q: Where can impacted Merck employees access unemployment and job support?

A: Affected workers can access reemployment assistance, resume support, and unemployment benefits through the New Jersey Department of Labor at nj.gov/labor.

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