Protein R&D Co-Op

IFF • St. Louis, MO

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Are you ready to apply your engineering knowledge to real-world product innovation and make a meaningful impact? IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products. Food Ingredients: Innovating improved nutritional profiles, better taste and texture, and greater cost efficiency to meet the needs of global food and beverage manufacturers. The role is based in St. Louis, MO (on‑site). Be part of a collaborative, solution‑oriented, and growth‑focused team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration. Where You’ll Make a Difference Support R&D projects related to new product development and process improvement focused on rate, quality, and yield. Plan, execute, and document experimental trials in application labs and pilot facilities. Lead monthly quality global collaboration meeting (will need to prepare data). Lead monthly pilot plant baseline trial to generate control samples. Conduct statistical analyses to determine pilot plant process capability. Present in quarterly report. Learn and perform analytical methods to support baseline and other product development projects. Maintain and operate laboratory and pilot plant equipment safely. Support cross-functional teams including analytical, applications, sensory, and capital projects.

Requirements

• Currently a sophomore, junior, or senior pursuing a BS in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering in an ABET-accredited program.
• Ability to complete a 7-month co‑op (June–December 2026) as full time contract
• Strong technical foundation in mathematics and basic statistics.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and safety practices.
• Proficiency with MS Office tools.
• Demonstrated ability to collect, process, and analyze data.
• Ability to work independently and within team environments.
• Strong time management, organization, and confidentiality skills.
• Willingness and ability to wear appropriate PPE and perform physical tasks such as standing for extended periods and climbing stairs.
• Must have valid authorization to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working in pilot plants, labs, or manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with engineering statistics or process improvement methodologies.
• Hands‑on experience with technical problem‑solving or experimental design.

Responsibilities

• Support R&D projects related to new product development and process improvement focused on rate, quality, and yield.
• Plan, execute, and document experimental trials in application labs and pilot facilities.
• Lead monthly quality global collaboration meeting (will need to prepare data).
• Lead monthly pilot plant baseline trial to generate control samples.
• Conduct statistical analyses to determine pilot plant process capability.
• Present in quarterly report.
• Learn and perform analytical methods to support baseline and other product development projects.
• Maintain and operate laboratory and pilot plant equipment safely.
• Support cross-functional teams including analytical, applications, sensory, and capital projects.

Benefits

• Opportunity to gain meaningful, hands-on R&D and process engineering experience.
• Exposure to multidisciplinary teams across analytical, applications, sensory, and engineering functions.
• Work within a global organization committed to innovation and scientific excellence.
• Professional development and mentorship throughout the co‑op program.
• Ability to contribute to innovations shaping the future of food ingredients.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees