Quality Intern

External • Bakersfield, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Quality Intern supports the Quality team in ensuring all ice cream products meet food safety, regulatory, and company quality standards. This role assists with inspections, documentation, and continuous improvement activities to maintain product integrity and compliance. By the end of the internship, the candidate will gain practical experience in food safety systems (HACCP, GMP, SQF/BRC), understand ice cream manufacturing processes (mixing, pasteurization, freezing, packaging), develop skills in quality data analysis and reporting, and learn how to operate in a regulated food production environment.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field
• Strong attention to detail and analytical mindset
• Ability to work in a cold and fast-paced production environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and basic data analysis

Nice To Haves

• Basic knowledge of food safety principles preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist in routine quality checks on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods
• Support sensory evaluations (taste, texture, appearance) of ice cream products
• Participate in GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and sanitation audits on the production floor
• Help monitor critical control points (CCPs) and document compliance with HACCP plans
• Collect and analyze microbiological and physical test samples
• Assist with investigations of quality deviations, including root cause analysis
• Support documentation and maintenance of quality records, logs, and reports
• Collaborate with production teams to reinforce food safety and quality standards
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., reducing defects, waste, or complaints)
• Meet daily production targets by operating efficiently
• Follow production plans and instructions to support overall business goals
• Help reduce downtime by reporting issues quickly and keeping the line running smoothly
• Use materials responsibly to support cost, waste, and output goals
• Maintain an organized and efficient workstation to support smooth operations
• Use raw materials, packaging, and supplies correctly to avoid waste
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, reduce waste, and increase efficiency
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent, efficient results
• Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) quality checks, testing, and documentation requirements
• Stop and escalate if product quality is not correct
• Ensure products meet safety, quality, and environmental standards at every stage
• Follow food safety and hygiene rules, including proper sanitation and allergen controls
• Participate in audits, inspections, and quality improvement efforts
• Follow all safety rules and help maintain a safe work environment for yourself and your team
• Support team members, communicate clearly, and work together to hit daily goals
• Participate in required training and development to build skills and grow in the role
• Take responsibility for attendance, punctuality, and teamwork expectations
• Report hazards, near misses, or unsafe behaviors to help strengthen the safety culture
• Follow all company policies, including safety, quality, and GMP requirements
• Comply with regulatory, environmental, and food safety standards each shift
• Operate equipment responsibly to avoid damage or unnecessary maintenance
• Support sustainability efforts by minimizing waste, recycling where required, and using resources efficiently
• Participate responsibly in company programs and initiatives

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees