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

About Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue. Its brands include PLANTERS®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE®, APPLEGATE®, WHOLLY®, HORMEL® BLACK LABEL®, COLUMBUS®, JENNIE-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The Company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report and one of America’s most responsible companies by Newsweek, was recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World’s Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com .

Job Title:

R&D Packaging Engineering Intern

Job Purpose:

A food packaging intern focuses on the design, development, and improvement of packaging solutions for food products. This role is crucial because packaging affects product safety, shelf life, and consumer appeal.

Responsibilities:

• 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

Minimum Requirements:

• 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

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

Hormel Foods does not offer sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas.

About Our Internship Program:

The Hormel Foods internship program is designed with your growth in mind. As an intern, you'll gain hands-on experience working on meaningful projects that support real business initiatives while developing the skills and confidence needed to launch your career.

In addition to day-to-day responsibilities, you'll have opportunities to connect with fellow interns, build your professional network, participate in development and learning sessions, and interact with leaders across the organization. You'll leave the summer with valuable experience, lasting connections, and a deeper understanding of what it's like to work for a Fortune 500 company.

We're proud to be recognized among the nation's Top 150 Internship Programs by Vault.

Duration:

Our summer internship program runs 10-12 weeks and starts in late May and ends in early August.

Hours:

This is a temporary, full-time, hourly position. Interns can expect to work approximately 40 hours per week and may be eligible for overtime based on business needs.

Location:

• This is an on-site position based out of our corporate headquarters in Austin, MN.

• Travel to manufacturing facilities may be required.

• Hormel Foods does not currently offer remote internship opportunities.

Compensation/Benefits:

• Competitive hourly pay of $24.50 paid on a weekly basis

• 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

At Hormel we invite difference and diversity in all aspects. We offer a space of support, understanding, and community. We are committed to the journey! Learn more about our progress here: https://www.hormelfoods.com/about/inclusion-and-belonging/

Hormel Foods provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.

Requisition ID : 35726

Hormel Foods Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.