R&D Packaging Engineering Intern (Austin MN) - Summer 2027 - Campus Recruiting

Hormel Foods is a global branded food company. The R&D Packaging Engineering Intern will support the design, development, testing, and improvement of food packaging solutions, including evaluating packaging materials, coordinating supplier and machine trials, assisting with abuse testing, and completing a packaging research project.

What you'll do:

• Involved in one or more of the following assignments:
• Enter data into our packaging specification database system
• Evaluate barrier and abuse characteristics of various packaging materials
• Collaborate with suppliers concerning various packaging systems for our products
• Coordinate "Machine Trial Orders" as part of a label development
• Assist our Packaging Engineers in conducting various abuse tests such as drop, vibration and shipping tests
• Assist in the design of creative packaging options involving point of purchase and Club store displays
• Opportunities to gain knowledge of technical report preparation documenting test results
• Will complete a research project providing experience in true packaging research and development

What they're looking for:

• Must graduate in August 2027, December 2027, or May 2028 and major in Packaging Engineering with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA preferred
• Demonstrated leadership and persuasive skills are necessary for success in this position
• Possess a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit
• Applicants must not now, or at any time in the future, require employer sponsorship for a work visa
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer
• Must be 18 years of age or older (all plant positions)
• This position will require access to and/or the utilization of a personal motor vehicle to get to and from the workplace
• Must be comfortable with the preparation and consumption of a variety of Hormel Foods Products which may include but not limited to pork, beef, chicken, turkey and nuts
• Previous food manufacturing, meat processing, laboratory, or product development experience
• Knowledge of food formulation principles and food processing operations
• Experience with laboratory testing methods and data analysis
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications

Benefits:

• Housing assistance through company-provided housing or a housing stipend, based on location and availability.
• Reimbursement of eligible relocation expenses.
• Reimbursement for approved business-related travel and expenses
• Opportunity to participate in the Company's 401(k) retirement savings plan, including company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual
• Professional development opportunities and networking experiences
• Potential consideration for future internships, co-ops, or full-time employment opportunities