Product Development Internship - Summer 2027
About The Position
Schwan’s Company is seeking a Product Development Intern for a 12-week summer internship in La Palma, California, from May 24 through August 13, 2027. The intern will focus on sauces used in frozen or shelf-stable food products and contribute to hands-on product development projects aligned with their studies. The role offers interaction with company executives and senior leaders, guidance from experienced team members, and a supportive culture that prioritizes health, safety, and well-being. The internship may provide a pathway to full-time roles after graduation. Working with Food Scientists, the intern will help develop new products, improve existing products and processes, and support product testing and commercialization. Work includes preparing experimental formulas, assisting with laboratory and pilot plant tests, collecting and documenting data, evaluating ingredients, validating product quality and sensory attributes, researching market trends, and communicating findings and recommendations.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in Food Science or a related field such as Bakery Science, Meat Science, Dairy Science, or Culinary Science.
- Anticipated graduation date of December 2027 or May 2028.
- Foundational understanding of food science or a related discipline, including awareness of product development, food safety, and quality standards.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills, including the ability to collect, interpret, and present data.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to document and share results clearly.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks, follow laboratory protocols, and meet project timelines.
- Collaborative mindset, eagerness to learn, adaptability in a fast-paced environment, and ability to connect technical findings to consumer and business needs.
Nice To Haves
- GPA of 3.0 or higher preferred.
- Experience with laboratory or statistical software.
Responsibilities
- Partner with Food Scientists to develop new products, enhance existing products, and identify process and efficiency improvements.
- Prepare experimental formulas, processing techniques, and product specifications under guidance.
- Support laboratory and pilot plant test runs.
- Collect data, record observations, and accurately document test results.
- Assist in evaluating alternative ingredients for product quality, cost reduction, and supply resilience.
- Verify preparation instructions and document product performance, quality, and sensory attributes.
- Conduct literature reviews and competitive product assessments to identify trends, technologies, and innovation opportunities.
- Assist in scaling successful prototypes from laboratory to production, considering technical feasibility and company standards.
- Follow laboratory safety protocols and support compliance with food safety and regulatory requirements.
- Communicate test findings and recommendations through reports, presentations, or demonstrations for technical and non-technical audiences.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
