You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.
Email

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is offering paid, 10-week project-based Food Safety Internships that explore topics relevant to students’ academic studies through hands-on experience with IFPA staff and produce industry members. The program includes in-person participation at IFPA’s Washington Conference (June 8-12, 2025) and Program Wrap Up Presentations (July 20-22, 2025) and 8-weeks of project work completed virtually. Internships will begin May 21, 2025, and culminate on July 22, 2025.

Food Safety Interns will be responsible for supporting the IFPA Food Safety and Regulatory team, working in collaboration with Sustainability, Global Insights and Government Relations and Public Policy Interns. Interns will gain firsthand experience as to how federal food safety policy is developed, how foodborne illness outbreaks are handled, and how science and education promote industry implementation of risk-based preventive approaches to maintain the safety and quality throughout the fresh produce supply chain. 

PROJECT EXAMPLES: 

  • Create or update fact sheets on pathogens of concern to the produce industry (e.g., Salmonella, Cyclospora, Listeria), new food safety policies (e.g., sampling and testing, root cause analyses, etc.), quality-related industry challenges and regulations and/or practices (e.g., agricultural water safety), and other relevant topics. 
  • Gather, compile, and summarize data and information related to outbreaks and recalls associated with fresh produce.
  • Work with member volunteer groups to capture the discussion of workgroup topics (e.g., on whole genome sequencing, produce safety audits). 
  • Support the preparation of presentations for produce safety meetings and trainings.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

  • Work collaboratively, applying knowledge and skills, to complete assigned projects
  • Build technical, leadership and communication skills
  • Develop emotional intelligence, problem solving and accountability competencies
  • Get firsthand experience of IFPA, the industry and its career opportunities
  • Benefit from structured peer-to-peer networking sessions, which, combined with the direct engagement with industry members and a personal ‘career ambassador,’ contribute to a robust learning environment

The program offers a Total Stipend of $4,400 for the 10-Weeks. This part-time internship requires approximately 20 hours each week. Travel costs for the mandatory in-person meetings, accommodations, and other outlined expenses will be covered by IFPA, as is a laptop and internet service for those who need it.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, February 21st. 

Please review the Food Safety Internship Description which includes the minimum qualifications, time commitment, compensation and the application requirements.