Company Name: AbbVie
Location: North Chicago, IL, United States (On-site at AbbVie’s Headquarters in Lake County, IL, with travel, transportation, and lodging provided for eligible students)
Job Type: Unpaid, two-day externship (This is a pipeline for a potential 10–12 week paid internship in the following summer)
Salary Range: Unpaid
Industry: Pharmaceutical / Sales
Job Overview
AbbVie, a global leader in the pharmaceutical and sales industry, is offering a unique opportunity for university students to participate in our 2026 Pharmaceutical Sales Externship. This two-day, unpaid program serves as a pipeline for a potential 10–12 week paid internship in the following summer. It is an immersive experience designed to introduce you to the dynamic world of pharmaceutical sales while providing a foundational understanding of the industry.
As a Pharmaceutical Sales Extern, you will gain invaluable insights into the daily responsibilities of a sales representative, interact with industry experts, and build a strong professional network. Successful candidates are motivated sophomores with a passion for sales, strong teamwork skills, and integrity. This program represents the first step toward a rewarding career with AbbVie.
Duties and Responsibilities
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Actively participate in all externship activities and learning sessions.
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Engage with industry experts and current sales professionals to gain insights into the career path.
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Use Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) for basic tasks and presentations.
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Demonstrate self-motivation, discipline, and a strong desire to learn.
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Exhibit excellent problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills.
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Showcase interpersonal, leadership, and project management abilities.
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Collaborate effectively with peers, demonstrating adaptability and teamwork.
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Uphold the highest standards of initiative, innovation, and integrity.
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Gain exposure to sales cycles, clinical acumen, and commercial strategies in the pharmaceutical industry.
Qualifications
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Must be a sophomore student currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program.
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Expected graduation date: December 2027 – July 2028.
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Field of study: biological sciences, pharmacy, business-related, or equivalent.
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Willing and able to complete a 10–12 week on-site internship between Junior and Senior year.
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Open to relocation for a potential future internship.
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Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (preferred).
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Basic healthcare or biotech industry knowledge.
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Strong communication skills and a demonstrated desire to learn.
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Basic to intermediate Microsoft Office skills.
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Proven record of teamwork, adaptability, leadership, and initiative.
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Interest in a sales career requiring strong clinical acumen.
Salary and Benefits
This externship is unpaid; however, AbbVie provides travel, transportation, and lodging for eligible students. Most importantly, this program serves as a direct pipeline to a paid 10–12 week internship in the following summer, offering a strong career pathway.
Working Conditions
This is a two-day, on-site externship at AbbVie’s Headquarters in Lake County, IL. Participants are expected to attend all sessions and actively engage with mentors, speakers, and peers in a structured, educational environment.
Why Work with Us
AbbVie is a global leader in pharmaceuticals, committed to advancing medicine and improving lives worldwide. This externship provides a rare opportunity to experience our innovative culture and dedication to talent development. By joining, you will gain firsthand industry exposure, build professional connections, and position yourself for a future internship and career at AbbVie.
