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Research and Development Internship

Rise Baking Company
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Research & Development (R&D) Internship

Job Purpose

The R&D Intern will support the product development team in the creation, improvement, and scaling of high-quality food products. This role offers hands-on experience in a test kitchen and laboratory environment, providing insight into the lifecycle of a product from initial concept to commercial production. You will bridge the gap between culinary creativity and the technical science required to maintain product consistency and safety.

Essential Functions

  • Product Formulation: Assist in the bench-top development of new recipes and the optimization of existing formulas to improve taste, texture, or cost-efficiency.
  • Sample Preparation: Prepare prototypes and samples for internal cuttings, sensory panels, and customer presentations, ensuring precise measurement and adherence to gold-standard recipes.
  • Sensory Evaluation: Help coordinate and participate in sensory testing; collect and analyze data on flavor profiles, shelf-life stability, and consumer preference.
  • Ingredient Sourcing: Assist in identifying and documenting new raw materials from suppliers, ensuring they meet quality and regulatory specifications.
  • Lab Maintenance: Maintain a clean and organized R&D laboratory and test kitchen, adhering to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and safety protocols.
  • Documentation & Data Entry: Accurately record experimental results, nutritional data, and processing parameters in R&D databases or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software.
  • Cross-Functional Support: Collaborate with the Quality Assurance and Production teams to ensure that new formulations can be successfully scaled up for high-volume manufacturing.
  • Shelf-Life Testing: Monitor and document stability studies, including moisture analysis, pH levels, and organoleptic changes over time.

Qualifications (Education, Experience, Competencies)

  • Education: College Sophomore or above currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
  • Technical Skills: Basic understanding of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, and the scientific method.
  • Safety & Compliance: Familiarity with food safety standards (HACCP, FDA, or SQF) is a significant plus.
  • Analytical Skills: Strong attention to detail, specifically regarding weights, measures, and the ability to follow complex technical instructions.
  • Communication: Ability to articulate sensory experiences (taste, smell, texture) and present findings to the broader innovation team.
  • Tools: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel and Word); experience with nutritional labeling software (like Genesis R&D) is a bonus.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods in a kitchen/lab environment and handle various food ingredients, including allergens.