Packaging R&D Co-op

Rich Products Corporation • Buffalo, NY

1d • $24 - $32 • Onsite

About The Position

Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $4 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.

Purpose StatementRich’s currently has a great opportunity for a Packaging Engineer Co-op, for 6-8 months, starting in summer 2026 through December 2026. This position is in the Research & Development department, located in Buffalo, New York.  This opportunity will allow you to work in a fast-paced environment, developing innovative packaging solutions for our wide range of products. Projects range from low to high complexity and will include interaction with other R&D technical associates, packaging suppliers and cross functional team members. This opportunity is available to a student who wants to take on new challenges and seeks to gain a practical knowledge of packaging engineering through hands-on experience in a collaborative environment.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a degree in Packaging Science, Packaging Engineering, or a related field.
• Technical ability to perform various packaging tests using lab equipment, including compression testing, tensile testing, and drop testing.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Analytical and technical knowledge of packaging materials, processes, and systems.
• Self motivated with a positive attitude; organized and able to adapt to changing priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and CAPE/TOPS package design software.

Responsibilities

• Support coordination of new product packaging designs—including updates to existing packaging—by collaborating with Product R&D, Sales, Marketing, and Operations teams.
• Assign raw material codes and develop specifications for packaging materials.
• Identify packaging cost saving opportunities and calculate projected financial impacts.
• Partner with external suppliers and internal cross functional teams to generate innovative packaging design solutions.
• Participate in cross functional project teams and deliver clear updates and presentations as required.
• Create and maintain packaging specifications, associated test methods, and testing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Conduct hands on lab testing of packaging components (e.g., compression, tensile, drop testing) and prepare detailed test reports.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern