Food Quality Intern

About the role

Location: South Sioux City, Nebraska. Workplace Type: On‑Site. Ingredion is a global powerhouse across more than 60 industries, harnessing natural ingredients to transform lives. As a Food Quality Intern for Summer 2026, you will support the Quality team in maintaining high standards for food safety, product quality, and regulatory compliance while gaining hands‑on experience in a food manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist with routine quality and food safety testing of raw materials, in‑process products, and finished goods.
• Support quality investigations by collecting, analyzing, and documenting data related to product quality and process performance.
• Participate in facility audits, inspections, and food safety assessments.
• Collaborate with production and laboratory teams to identify opportunities for product quality and process improvement.
• Review and maintain quality documentation, records, and reports in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in tracking quality metrics and preparing summaries for management review.
• Support implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) related to quality and food safety issues.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), sanitation procedures, and food safety protocols at all times.
• Present internship project findings and recommendations to plant leadership at the completion of the internship.

Requirements

• Currently possess unrestricted authorization to work in the United States (Ingredion does not intend to sponsor work visas).
• Be a currently enrolled student in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program.
• If currently enrolled in undergraduate status, have completed at least two years of coursework and hold sophomore, junior, or non‑graduating senior status.
• Be available to work full‑time during the internship period.
• Reliable transportation required to get to and from the facility each workday.

Qualifications

• Progress toward a Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Safety, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Engineering, or a related field.
• Interest in food quality, food safety, regulatory compliance, or manufacturing operations.

Skills

• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing and laboratory environment.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay based on degree program (see Pay section).
• Housing stipends may be available to students relocating 51+ miles from the work location.
• Internship Program Events & Activities – career exploration, networking, professional development, including the annual Capstone Summit at Ingredion Headquarters in Westchester, Illinois.
• Intern Coaching Program – paired with a mentor for professional development and cultural integration.
• Involvement in Ingredion's Business Resource Groups – contribute to Inclusion & Belonging strategy.
• Employee Recognition Program – real‑time appreciation with personalized recognition rewards.
• Employee Discount Program – exclusive discounts on everyday products, services, and travel.
• Hands‑on Manufacturing Experience – practical exposure to food safety, quality systems, laboratory testing, and continuous improvement.
• Full‑time roles are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision coverage and a 401(k) plan with a competitive company match.