Research & Development Intern/Co-Op, 2027

The J.M. Smucker Co.; Orrville (OH); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing stipend

Competitive compensation

Networking with leadership

Professional development sessions

Fitness center access

On-site cafeteria

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Co. invites students to join its Research & Development internship in Orrville, OH.

You will independently manage and conduct technical functions of a small research project, analyze data, and report key findings. This hybrid program requires 75% onsite work with options for a 3‑month summer internship or a 6–8 month commitment (Jan–Aug or May–Dec). Indicate availability in the application.

Qualifications

• Sophomore or Junior standing with coursework in Food Science or related field.
• Ability to keep detailed, organized records and manage multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Apply product development methods and scientific approach to one or more project types: new product development, analytical method development, or cost-savings initiatives.
• Maintain thorough lab records with hypotheses, protocols, results and next steps.
• Maintain clean and organized laboratory work environment.
• Communicate effectively with peers and project teams.
• Support team trials/start-ups and train others on new lab methods/SOPs.

Skills

Time management

Leadership

Organization

Project management

Education

Food Science (relevant field)

Job description

Your Opportunity as a Research & Development Intern

As an intern within our Research and Development organization you will have the opportunity to independently manage and conduct all technical functions of a small research project, as well as analyze data and report on key findings.

Location

Orrville, Corporate Offices

Work Arrangements

Hybrid – at least 75% onsite expectations

Work Schedule

We are looking for students who are available for a 3-month summer internship but also looking for students available for 6–8-month positions (from January – August or May – December). Please indicate your availability on the application.

In This Role You Will

• Apply product development methodologies and scientific method to organize and execute one or more of the following project types through independent or teamwork: new product development initiative(s), analytical method development, or cost savings initiative.
• Maintain thorough lab records with hypotheses, protocols, results and next steps
• Maintain clean and organized laboratory work environment
• Work and communicate effectively and productively with peers and project teams
• Provide support to other team project trials or start-ups, training other team members or locations on new lab methods/SOPs, and participate in team meetings and ideations

What We Are Looking For

• A Sophomore or Junior standing in school with requisite educational experience in Food Science or related field
• A well-rounded skill set including strong time-management, ability to keep detail-oriented records, proven leadership abilities, good organization, and project management skills

Application Period

• Application period closes on November 6th, 2026

Why Choose the J.M. Smucker Company’s Internship Program?

• Learn: Unlock your potential in a collaborative and supportive environment where you are treated like a true peer and challenged to be your best.
• Grow: Benefit from hands‑on training with a dedicated mentor and connect with peers and leaders throughout the company.
• Lead: Contribute to high-profile projects that support our Company’s growing categories like snacks, coffee and pet food.

Additional Perks

• Unique opportunities to network and interact with company leadership
• Customized professional development sessions
• Networking events and social outings with fellow interns
• Access to a fully equipped fitness center, complete with a basketball court, indoor walking track, and recreational league sports
• The Orchard, our gourmet cafeteria, offering breakfast and lunch with seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients
• A competitive compensation package, including paid corporate holidays
• Compensation range: $21.50-$25.00
• Actual hourly rate is determined based upon the year of college that will be completed at the start of the internship
• A housing stipend for interns relocating for the program

Experience an internship where you can learn, grow, and lead — all while being part of something special at Smucker.

The Right Place for You

• We are bold, kind, strive to do the right thing, we play to win, and we believe in a strong community that thrives together. Our culture is rooted in our Basic Beliefs, and we believe in supporting every employee by meeting their physical, emotional, and financial needs.

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We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, age, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.