FSQ Intern

SunOpta, Inc.; Eden Prairie (MN); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

SunOpta, Inc. in Eden Prairie, MN, offers a 12-week Food Safety & Quality Internship running from May 17, 2027 to August 6, 2027. Interns will apply classroom knowledge by collaborating with professionals on meaningful FSQ projects.

Responsibilities include supporting quality management systems, supplier quality, audits prep, and FSQ process improvements. The program emphasizes safety, GMP adherence, teamwork, and professional growth through hands-on experience.

Qualifications

• Candidates working toward a bachelor’s degree in a related field (food science/technology, engineering, microbiology, analytical chemistry).
• Candidates must be at least a sophomore in college and actively pursuing a degree.
• Graduate students will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Support projects in Food Safety & Quality, including quality management systems and supplier quality.
• Prepare for third-party audits by organizing documentation and identifying gaps.
• Shadow audits and learn global food safety standards in practice.
• Develop training tools for FSQ teams and advance food safety culture.
• Present project findings and recommendations to leadership.
• Adhere to GMPs, safety procedures, and all quality processes.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field (food science/technology, engineering, microbiology, analytical chemistry)

Job description

Job Summary:

This is a 12-week program where interns will apply the knowledge and skills they've gained in the classroom by working alongside professionals at SunOpta. As part of the team, interns will gain valuable hands-on experience, contribute to meaningful projects, and improve processes.

Essential Functions of the Job:

FOOD SAFETY & QUALITY INTERNSHIP

• Contribute to projects supporting Food Safety & Quality. Areas of focus could include quality management systems, supplier quality, specifications, manufacturing programs, food safety culture, certifications, or governance.
• Project examples include:
  • Real-World Audit Prep
• Help prepare for third-party food safety audits by organizing documentation and identifying gaps.
• Shadow audit walkthroughs and learn how global food safety standards are applied in practice.
• Supplier Scorecard Development
• Build a supplier risk dashboard using real data from ingredient and packaging vendors.
• Learn how companies assess food safety risks across their supply chain.
• Streamline FSQ Processes
  • Map and simplify key food safety workflows across departments, reducing manual steps and improving documentation efficiency.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to reduce bottlenecks.
• Develop Training for FSQ Teams
  • Identify the best method for training and build the tools for delivery.
• Advance Food Safety Culture
  • Support planning of special events and programs related to strengthening our food safety culture.
• Present project findings and recommendations to leadership.
• Adhere to company GMP’s (good manufacturing practices), safety procedures and all other quality processes.
• All other duties, as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidates must be working towards a bachelor’s degree in a related field (food science/technology, engineering, microbiology, analytical chemistry)
• Candidates must be at least a sophomore in college and actively pursuing a degree.
• Graduate students will be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous internship experience.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Additional Considerations:

• Travel: Travel may be required to various SunOpta locations
• Location: This position will be located at our Corporate Office in Eden Prairie, MN.
• This is a 12-week program running 5/17/2027 through 8/6/2027.
• Pay Rate: $20.00/hour.
• Relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.