Research and Development Intern

GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE

The Research and Development Intern will assist with conducting in-depth shelf-life studies of various blends of vegetables, contributing to the continuous improvement and refinement of Dole’s shelf-life procedures.  The intern will support the Research and Development (R&D) team in gathering and analyzing data, developing insights, and ensuring the highest quality standards for the packaged fresh-cut salads.     

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS / DUTIES OF THE POSITION

• Coordinate microbiological studies with third party lab
• Lead cross-functional team to properly document product metrics and collect samples
• Analyze microbiological data results
• Assess product quality throughout shelf-life
• Assist R&D team with certain development/commercialization activities related to creating new products
• Create and deliver a final presentation to department heads and executive team of Dole Fresh Vegetables.
• Other duties as assigned

INTERNSHIP DETAILS 

• Summer 2025, 12-week internship
• 100% onsite (not a remote internship)
• Pay Rate:  $20 - $22 per hour
• No relocation or housing assistance provided

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

• Intermediate knowledge of Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Understanding of scientific method
• Intermediate knowledge of microbiology, chemistry, and biology
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work in a collaborative and inclusive environment
• Knowledge of Statistical Analysis
• Comfortable in laboratory and manufacturing settings
• Valid drivers license and use of reliable transportation
• Bilingual in Spanish/English is preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time; use hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; talk or hear; ability to smell.
• Ability to maneuver around an array of equipment, bend, stoop, climb stairs, lift up to 25 pounds, identify and distinguish colors, and work in a cold environment.
• Ability to walk on uneven ground.

WORK HOUR & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Full time, 40-hour workweek
• No overtime expected
• Using intern's personal vehicle, travel to and from various Dole facilities and/or field locations in the Salinas Valley

EDUCATION LEVEL AND FIELDS OF STUDY

• Fall 2025 rising Junior, Senior or graduate student obtaining a degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Biosystems Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Ag Business, or related field

EEO STATEMENT: We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.