Research & Development—Foodservice Intern

Grande Cheese Company • Fond du Lac, WI

3h

About The Position

As an R&D Intern – Trademark Excellence Sensory Insights, you will gain hands-on experience supporting sensory science and product quality initiatives that help ensure products consistently meet high standards for flavor, functionality, and performance. Interns in our department have completed projects such as operating and analyzing samples using an electronic nose, providing sensory evaluations of cheese product and their ingredients, and planning and conducting their own sensory studies using a variety of testing methods. Interns in this role will have the chance to lead independent sensory projects, assist with trial design, execution, and documentation, analyze results using appropriate statistical techniques, and effectively share their findings. Interns in this role can expect to further their learning in food, dairy, and sensory science, and other related fields in addition to collaboration, professionalism, attention to detail, time management, and more. This internship offers a unique opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a professional research environment while gaining real-world experience in sensory science and product quality. You'll work closely with industry professionals, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop technical and professional skills that will help prepare you for a successful career in food science and R&D.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in food science or a related scientific field.
• Student in sophomore or greater status at an accredited college or university.
• Interest in Research & Development with a focus on New Product Development, Sensory Science, and or Microbiology.
• Must be willing and able to taste food products, evaluate sensory attributes, and document observations using sensory evaluation tools and charts.
• Mature, positive outlook with ability to focus on multiple duties across different areas.
• Advanced Word and Excel skills- particularly graphing, table manipulation, and some statistical application.
• Strong math skills with some exposure to statistics.
• Strong work ethic, self-starter.
• Able to maintain confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

• Involvement in campus organizations, student groups, athletics, volunteer activities, or other extracurricular leadership opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent sensory and R&D research projects focused on product quality and its impact on performance, flavor, and functionality.
• Analyze trial results using appropriate statistical methods, with support as needed.
• Communicate research findings through both written reports and verbal presentations.
• Assist with daily projects, surveys, and evaluations conducted in the lab.
• Support Scientists with trial planning, testing, execution, data collection, analysis, and project documentation.
• Work closely with the Trademark Excellence Sensory Insights team to learn, understand, and provide product insights and sensory analysis.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand how different departments contribute to product quality and performance.

Benefits

• Farm to fork experience during this program.
• Farm tour, facility tours, and experience the end user products.
• Networking events where you will meet executives and community leaders.
• Internship group outings and events.
• Volunteer opportunities within the community.
• Personal development events and training.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern