Food Safety and Sensory Intern *On-site*

Project Details:

This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to work with the Food Safety and Sensory team, contributing to all aspects of departmental operations, with a focus on transitioning from paper-based to electronic data management systems. The intern will gain valuable experience in food safety protocols, sensory evaluation, and the implementation of digital solutions within a food manufacturing environment.

Collaborate with the Food Safety and Sensory (FSS) team on all aspects of departmental operations, gaining hands-on experience in food safety and sensory evaluation.

• Assist in the transition from paper-based forms to electronic systems by auditing existing paperwork, identifying key data points, and understanding current workflows.

• Support the development and implementation of electronic data collection systems, potentially including data entry, testing, and validation.

• Contribute to the maintenance and organization of food safety and sensory records, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.

• Participate in sensory evaluations, including sample preparation, data collection, and analysis (if applicable).

• Assist in conducting food safety audits and inspections, learning about regulatory requirements and best practices.

• Support the FSS team in other related tasks and projects as assigned, contributing to a safe and high-quality food production environment.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education

• Attending four-year college or university to attain an Food Science, or similar Bachelor's degree; or already awarded Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university.

Required Skills

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous record-keeping and data entry skills are essential for maintaining accurate records.

• Organizational Skills: Ability to organize and manage paperwork, data, and other information effectively.

• Computer Proficiency: Comfortable using computers and various software applications, including data entry and potentially database management. Experience with Excel is highly recommended.

• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, to collaborate with the FSS team and other stakeholders.

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze data and identify trends or inconsistencies.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and troubleshoot issues related to data entry or electronic systems.

• Interest in Food Safety and Sensory: A genuine interest in food safety practices and sensory evaluation is beneficial.

• Basic Understanding of Food Safety Principles: While not always required, some familiarity with food safety regulations and best practices is a plus.

Skills

Language Skills

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents.

• Ability to make effective presentations on complex topics to plant management and other stakeholders.

Reasoning Ability

• Data Analysis: Ability to interpret data, identify patterns, and draw logical conclusions related to food safety and sensory results.

• Problem Identification: Ability to recognize inconsistencies or potential issues in processes, data, or systems and understand their implications.

• Process Improvement: Ability to think critically about current workflows and suggest improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy, particularly in the transition to electronic systems.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment can be moderate to loud depending on the location within the plant.