INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Product Development Internship Program 2026

CompanyFerrara
LocationChicago
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJanuary 2, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
Interns will work on various projects including Lab Development, Pilot Development, and Consumer Sensory Tests. They will also contribute to the Developer Handbook and support ingredient consolidation efforts.
Internship Type
full time
Company Size
2156
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
For generations, Ferrara has created sugar confections that enable moments of sweetness, celebration, and connection for candy lovers. Today, Ferrara is the #1 sugar confectioner in the U.S. with global sales in more than 60 countries. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of over 9,400 employees around the world who deliver and create hundreds of iconic and beloved products. A career at Ferrara means you’re an integral member of a wider community. Ferrara Group is a part of a global family of distinct yet connected companies united by a passion for quality, innovation and delight. In the U.S., more than 91 million households annually enjoy our popular brands like NERDS®, Brach’s®, Jelly Belly®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, and Trolli®. In Brazil, Dori has become a household name with snacking products that include brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100. And, in France, Carambar & Co has earned generations of loyal customers through the timeless appeal of iconic candy and chocolate brands such as Carambar, Lutti, Krema, Poulain, Vichy and Terry’s. A privately held company, Ferrara Group is headquartered in Chicago, with a network of more than 30 locations in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia Pacific that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities.
About the Role

Work Location: ​Chicago​

Chicago

Want to make an impact?

We’re looking for current juniors interested in joining our Research & Development team as a Product Development Intern in the summer of 2026. Internships are competitive, 10-12 weeks in length, and will focus on a variety of exciting projects specific to the internship area. Through these projects, mentorship, exposure to leadership, and a final project, you will gain the unparalleled experience for your future career. There is a potential opportunity for full time offers following this internship. 

Ways you will make a difference

  • An Innovation Project – work on Lab Development, Pilot Development, and Consumer/Internal Sensory Test
  • Contribute to the Developer Handbook – supporting a better way of onboarding new members of the team
  • Ingredient Consolidation – support to address key supply stability issues

Experiences that will support your success

  • Spring 2027 grad majoring in: Chemical Engineering, Bio Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Food Engineering, Food Science, or related 
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities and involvement on campus
  • Excellent presentation, communication, and analytical skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Agile Thinker

Compensation

$25/Hr

What We Offer

At Ferrara, our 10–12-week summer program provides meaningful, hands-on experience through real assignments and projects that make an impact. Interns receive competitive pay, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, including leadership sessions and a final presentation to senior leaders. Beyond work, you’ll enjoy perks like complimentary access to our on-site gym, snacks, coffee, and – of course – plenty of candy, plus group outings and activities around the Chicagoland area.

Key Skills
Chemical EngineeringBio EngineeringAgricultural EngineeringFood EngineeringFood ScienceLeadershipPresentation SkillsCommunication SkillsAnalytical SkillsMicrosoft Office SuiteAgile Thinking