Quality and Food Safety Intern/Co-Op

Irca Group•Affton, MO

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Quality Assurance Intern/Co-op will play an active role in strengthening Food Safety and Quality (FSQ) systems within IRCA’s manufacturing network. Working under the guidance of site QA leadership, the intern/co-op will apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges by supporting process validation, sanitation optimization, foreign material control, and audit readiness initiatives. The position offers hands-on experience in quality systems management, regulatory compliance, and problem-solving within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for a student pursuing a technical degree who is eager to learn, collaborate cross-functionally, and contribute meaningful improvements that enhance product quality, operational efficiency, and customer trust.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctoral degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures
Able to work independently and as part of a team
Able to collect, analyze, summarize data and make recommendations
Curious and willing to learn in a regulated environment
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
Comfortable asking questions and escalating concerns appropriately
Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment (PPE, production floor exposure)
Exercise good judgment, integrity and respect for food safety culture

Responsibilities

Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), and all site Safety and Food Safety requirements.
Support daily Quality and Food Safety operations, including routine checks, data collection, and documentation.
Assist with laboratory testing and sample analysis (e.g., micro, physical, or chemical) to verify compliance with product specifications.
Participate in traceability, sanitation, sensory, and foreign material control projects to strengthen preventive programs.
Conduct or assist with work center audits (GMP, 5S, sanitation) and support the rollout of digital audit tools (e.g., Intelex).
Support root cause analysis for non-conformances and aid in implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
Help update and organize Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs), and training documents.
Maintain laboratory and quality records, including product testing results, retain samples, and calibration logs.
Assist with equipment verification and calibration under supervision of QA staff.
Participate in customer audit preparation and internal audit readiness activities.
Help monitor and maintain laboratory inventory (reagents, supplies, PPE, etc.).
Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, Maintenance, and Sanitation teams to improve quality awareness and problem-solving.
Perform other project and support activities as assigned to enhance Food Safety and Quality System performance.