Research & Development Intern

Job Description 

The Custom Ingredients Group team is seeking a Research & Development Intern for Summer 2027 to support product development, testing, and innovation initiatives focused on whey-based ingredients and products. In this role, you will work alongside experienced scientists and technical professionals, gaining hands-on experience in laboratory research, data analysis, experimental design, and process improvement. You will also be assigned unique R&D projects, allowing you to take ownership of research initiatives while receiving mentorship and guidance from the team. This internship offers the opportunity to apply scientific principles in a real-world environment while contributing to projects that support new product development and enhance manufacturing capabilities. 

What You Will Be Doing 

• Assist with developing and improving whey products by supporting research, testing, and process development activities. 
• Work closely with R&D scientists to understand product development and contribute ideas, observations, and insights. 
• Help design and conduct laboratory, pilot plant, and production-scale experiments while collecting and documenting accurate data. 
• Analyze test results using basic statistical methods and organize findings into clear tables, charts, and reports. 
• Participate in R&D projects by performing sample analysis, laboratory testing, and other technical tasks under guidance. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional team members to execute project plans, communicate results, and deliver project objectives. 
• Maintain laboratory equipment and workspaces while following all safety standards, laboratory procedures, and company policies. 
• Support continuous improvement efforts by staying informed on new technologies, assisting with procedure documentation, and participating in training opportunities. 

This internship provides meaningful, real-world experience in research and development, helping you build technical expertise, strengthen problem-solving skills, and gain insight into the product development lifecycle. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects while learning from experienced professionals in a collaborative environment. 

Unique Benefits of our Internship Program:  

• You will get the farm to fork experience during this program. You will experience a 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. 

While you don’t have to love pizza to work here…it sure does help!   

 Required Qualifications 

• Student in Sophomore or greater status working towards a degree in a science or engineering related field.  
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
• Strong math skills with exposure to basic statistics. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, including graphing, table creation, and data analysis. 
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and adapt to changing priorities. 
• Strong work ethic with the ability to work independently and take initiative. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle information professionally. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Interest in Research & Development, New Product Development, Sensory Analysis, and/or Microbiology. 
• Positive, professional attitude and strong problem-solving skills. 
• Experience organizing and presenting data in charts, graphs, or reports. 
• Familiarity with statistical applications and data interpretation. 
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team-oriented environment. 

Why Grande?  

With more than 80 years of crafting “The Finest Italian Cheeses That Money Can Buy”, Grande is a leader in the industry! Whether partnering with independent pizzerias from coast-to-coast to ensure they’re delivering the very best pizza to their customers or assisting our food manufacturing partners in delivering specialty whey ingredient solutions, our commitment to quality can’t be matched. While Grande’s reputation of excellence in the market is important, we believe our commitment to our workplace and community culture is of equal merit – our Associates come first at Grande. To complement our industry-leading benefits, Grande puts an emphasis on your career growth opportunities, while always promoting a positive work/life balance and supporting the communities in which we live and work. If you want to learn more about our company – what we do and how we go about it – or learn more about our beautiful, state-of-the-art corporate headquarters, visit www.grande.com.