Culinary Innovation & Research Internship

Position Summary

The Culinary Innovation & Research Intern will spend 10 weeks immersed in WesleyLife's culinary culture, operations, and innovation efforts. The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining experience for older adults. This internship is designed as a talent pipeline opportunity, with the goal of identifying future culinary leaders interested in joining WesleyLife following the completion of the program.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities

• Participate in community tours and culinary immersion experiences.
• Research industry-leading adaptive dining and finger-food programs.
• Develop creative culinary concepts and recipes.
• Conduct recipe testing, tastings, and resident evaluations.
• Analyze nutrition, production feasibility, and food costs.
• Create standardized recipes and production procedures.
• Document culinary innovations.
• Gather resident and team member feedback.
• Assist in establishing the framework for future WesleyLife culinary internship programs.
• Present a final project and recommendations to WesleyLife leadership.

Education & Experience

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Food Science, Nutrition, or related program
• ServSafe Certification required
• Passion for culinary innovation and hospitality
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Previous restaurant, hotel, healthcare, or foodservice experience preferred
• Interest in senior living, wellness, healthcare dining, or culinary research and development
• Interest in pursuing a culinary career within WesleyLife following internship completion