Packaging R&D Co-op

Packaging R&D Co-op

Pay: $26/hr 

Position Duration: May 2027 – November 2027 

Position Location: Arden Hills, MN 

Position Duties 

In our Packaging R&D co-op, you will have the opportunity to support and lead packaging development and renovation projects across our Dairy Foods business portfolio comprised of Butter & Spreads, Cheese, Retail Sweet Snacks, and Dairy Powders product categories. Projects may include the development of new packaging designs, optimization of existing packaging designs and operational processes, cost savings initiatives, refinement of testing procedures, and work supporting our packaging sustainability objectives and reporting.  

Typical Focus Areas: 

• Distribution hazard analysis and testing 

• Cost savings opportunity identification 

• Test method development 

• Vendor & material qualifications 

• Sustainability research and reporting 

• Shelf-life studies 

• Sensory testing 

• Competitive product analysis 

• Quality investigations and root cause analysis 

• Foundational research and literature reviews 

• Specification and drawing development 

General Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Engineering, or related fields of study 

• Completion of 100 & 200 level Major Studies courses preferred by time of co-op 

• Packaging majors preferred, engineering degree programs with packaging minors or emphasis will also be considered 

• A minimum GPA of 3.0 preferred 

• Experience in leadership roles in school, academic, or industry-related clubs or activities 

• Ability to relocate and work from Arden Hills, MN office for the duration of the co-op (in office four days a week) 

• Some travel to plant facilities may be required throughout the co-op 

Physical Qualifications 

When working in a laboratory environment, you may be required to: 

• Walk, stand, and engage in movement throughout the day 

• Occasionally lift items weighing up to 50 lbs. 

• Perform a variety of physical activities including standing, bending, lifting, turning, twisting, pushing, and pulling 

• Work in a production pilot plant environment 

• Work overtime 

You may need to wear personal protective equipment such as: 

• Safety glasses 

• Safety gloves 

• Hearing protection 

• Protective footwear 

• Protective clothing or uniforms 

The ability to perform these requirements is necessary to successfully perform this job's essential functions. 

Land O’Lakes will not consider this internship position for immigration sponsorship, and all applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. 

About Land O'Lakes, Inc.

Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member-owned cooperative that is reimagining the business of food. We have been named a Top Workplace by Indeed and LinkedIn, and to the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list.

We provide a broad portfolio of benefits to keep you and your family at your best. Land O'Lakes is Where Your Future Takes Root.

Land O’Lakes and our global entities support diversity in employment practices.

Neither Land O’Lakes, nor its affiliates or search firms, will ever contact you and ask for confidential information over the phone or in email. If you receive a call or email like this, please do not provide the information being requested.    

If you need to submit a reasonable accommodation request to complete the employment application process, please call the HR Solution Center at 844-LOL-HR4U (844-565-4748) M-F 8:00am-4:30pm CT.