R&D Chemistry Laboratory Intern (Austin MN) - Summer 2027 - Campus Recruiting

Hormel Foods Family of Companies • Austin, MN

3h • Onsite

About The Position

The primary purpose of this position is to develop practical laboratory skills and to gain real world experience in the successful manufacturing of food products. The intern supports testing, sample preparation, data collection, and quality assurance activities while learning industry best practices and laboratory protocols.

Requirements

• Must have at least Junior status (graduate in August 2027, December 2027, or May 2028) and major in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or related field with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA preferred.
• Strong math skills and basic lab skills including quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Possess a strong work ethic and analytical/problem solving skills.
• Must be capable of standing for extended periods of time, handle strong odors and may, on occasion, have to lift 50 lbs.
• Demonstrated leadership experience through academic, professional, volunteer, or extracurricular activities.
• Strong work ethic, initiative, and desire to learn.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to work safely in a pilot plant and manufacturing environments.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Applicants must not now, or any time in the future, require sponsorship for an employment visa.

Nice To Haves

• Previous food manufacturing, meat processing, laboratory, or product development experience.
• Knowledge of food formulation principles and food processing operations.
• Experience with laboratory testing methods and data analysis.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

Responsibilities

• Works with an intermediate degree of supervision and/or detailed procedures.
• Performs routine, complex and occasionally highly complex assays in the Chemistry Lab (all activities must be performed in a safe, accurate and efficient manner.
• Performs other duties assigned, including responsibilities in other areas of Research and Development.
• Practice communication skills, use analytical techniques, and apply critical thinking skills.
• Projects may include: Chemistry method validation or improvement, Foreign material cataloguing and organization, Laboratory information management system (LIMS) testing.
• Project presentation to lab work group at conclusion of internship.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay of $24.50 paid on a weekly basis
• Housing assistance through either a housing stipend or company-provided housing, depending on location
• Reimbursement of eligible relocation expenses
• Reimbursement for approved business-related expenses
• Opportunity to participate in a 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Paid time off (PTO) accrual
• Hands-on experience with a Fortune 500 company
• Professional development opportunities and networking experiences

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed