Research and Development Intern

Position Description and Purpose: 

Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Roskam Foods is a leading contract manufacturer that partners with world-renowned food brands, retailers, and food service providers to produce a myriad of frozen, refrigerated and shelf-stable products. We’re a scaled, diversified operation with over 2 million square feet of manufacturing and 50 production lines across 8 facilities in the U.S. and Canada. We believe in the power of purpose-driven leadership to generate value for all. And we’re on a mission to optimize the potential of our people and brands. We are passionate about multiplying possibilities for our employees and our partners. 

Roskam Foods produces and packages food products with the goal of consistently meeting and exceeding customer expectations for quality, safety, and wholesomeness.

Roskam has a full-time Summer 2026 Research and Development internship opportunities available for individuals currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Food Science or a related scientific field; recent graduates may apply with a related concentration and interest in a career within the food manufacturing.  The summer internships will be on-site at our facilities in Grand Rapids. 

This Research and Development Internship opportunity is designed to provide real exposure to Product Research and Development that will help you achieve your educational and career goals. You will have an excellent opportunity to work with other food scientists in an exciting area of meat/food science and product development while learning to identify materials, material locations, and the process for bringing them into the R&D kitchen.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in line testing, documentation, and processing on the plant floor
• Capture required data from processing lines
• Assist in disposition of finished products from line testing
• Identify and proactively plan for process/system improvement

Required and Preferred Qualifications:

Required:

• Currently pursuing a degree science related field
• Knowledge of scientific techniques and lab equipment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment

Preferred:

• Food Science Major
• Previous experience in food manufacturing

What You’ll Learn:

• Details of material identification and new product development in food manufacturing

• Importance of cross-functional collaboration in delivering safe, high-quality products
• Exposure to regulatory and customer requirements (e.g., FDA, USDA, SQF, BRC)
• Root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques

Roskam Foods offers a competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, tuition reimbursement, life and disability insurance, and a 401 (k) plan with company match.

AAP/EEO Statement: Roskam Foods is a recognized veteran-friendly and equal opportunity employer.

We are excited to introduce you to all that Roskam has to offer—from the many valuable benefits to programs that support your lifestyle needs and opportunities for professional development. Roskam is an equal opportunity employer.