R&D Process Development Engineering Co-Op

About the Role

The Grande R&D Process Development Engineering team is excited to offer a summer 2027 co-op opportunity for a motivated and forward-thinking college student. This co-op provides hands-on, project-based experience in key areas such as process development for the launch of new products. Co-ops will gain valuable exposure to our full cheese-making operations and pilot-scale processes while sharpening essential professional skills, including collaboration, customer focus, independent and team-based work, attention to detail, time management, and workplace professionalism. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute meaningfully while growing personally and professionally in a dynamic research and development environment.

Responsibilities

• Partner with R&D scientists to support the development of new food products, processes, and manufacturing technologies.
• Assist with designing, conducting, and documenting laboratory, pilot plant, and production trials.
• Collect, analyze, and present data using charts, graphs, and statistical methods to help evaluate product and process performance.
• Help define and optimize processing parameters to ensure product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
• Support packaging and process improvement initiatives by testing changes and verifying they meet quality standards.
• Participate in the startup and validation of new products and processes, including extended production runs.
• Prepare reports, trial protocols, and technical documentation to communicate results and recommendations.
• Demonstrate a commitment to safety, quality, and food safety while participating in professional development and training opportunities.

Unique Benefits of Our Co-op Program

• Farm-to-fork experience, including a farm tour, facility tours, and exposure to end-user products.
• Networking events with executives and community leaders.
• Intern and co-op group outings and events.
• Volunteer opportunities within the community.
• Personal development events and training.

Requirements

• Student in Junior or Senior status currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Food Engineering or related fields such as Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Agricultural Engineering.
• Excellent analytical and math skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Mature, positive outlook with the ability to focus on multiple duties across different areas.
• Ability to persuade others to change existing practices.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Proven ability to identify, assess, and solve problems.
• Proficient with computer and information technology.
• Knowledge of process development engineering and analytical software systems.
• Familiarity with applicable health and safety regulations.
• Familiarity with applicable food safety and quality regulations.
• Able to maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Participative involvement in campus organizations, non-class related volunteer involvement, off-campus employment, and demonstrated leadership.

Why Grande?

With more than 80 years of crafting “The Finest Italian Cheeses 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.