Research & Development Intern

Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Our activities span the entire value chain from farm to fork, across a broad range of business lines, we leverage our global reach and extensive asset network to serve our customers and consumers around the world. Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, Louis Dreyfus Company is active in over 100 countries and employs approximately 18,000 people globally.

Overall Purpose and Objective of Position

This position is that of a Product Developer Intern will work with the Application team on characterization of food ingredients and development of plant-based food and beverage products.

 

Primary Responsibilities/Essential Functions

Main responsibilities:

· Support food and beverage product development in the kitchen.

· Assist in sensory evaluation tests of protein ingredients and formulation.

· Record experimental data, observations, and formulation changes in lab notebooks and digital systems.

· Ensure accurate labeling and traceability of samples and ingredients.

· Conduct experiments to characterize and evaluate functionality of protein and other food ingredients.

· Understand and execute tasks as directed and as laid out in standard operating procedures.

· Keep order and hygiene in all areas.

· Practice LDC’s safety standards at all times.

Role requirements:

· A genuine desire to work in plant-based ingredients and food space.

· Capacity to work independently within defined experimental frame.

· Data reporting and presentation.

· Adaptability and accountability.

Education/Professional Certifications/Licenses

Basic qualification:

· Pursing bachelor’s degree in food science, food technology, nutrition, chemistry, biology, or relevant field.

 

Experience

Basic qualification:

· Hands on experience in a lab or research kitchen is a plus.

· Familiarity with plant protein ingredients and their functionality is a plus.

· Experience in prototyping or product development is a plus

 

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (including any physical demands)

Basic qualifications:

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Proficiency with spreadsheet and word-processing software (e.g., Excel, Word, Powerpoint).

· Strong organization abilities.

· Excellent attendance.

· Ability to work with people at all levels of the organization.

· Strong documentation skills.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to prioritize multiple tasks to meet strict monthly deadlines.

· Proactively approaches job duties and potential problems.

· Detail oriented with strong organizational skills.

· Basic laboratory etiquette & skills.

Safety, Health and Environmental Requirements

· This position is a safety sensitive position and requires a pre-employment drug screen

· Ability to sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time.

· Ability to climb stairs and ladders as well as work at heights;

· Ability to work in confined spaces.

· Ability to work in a variety of temperatures and potential inclement weather.

· Ability to withstand extended periods of walking and standing.

· Ability to move manufacturing materials, products and equipment of 50 pounds or more, which requires bending and lifting.

· Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as is compliant with policies and procedures.

 

Equipment Used

· Typical office equipment: PC, printer/scanner.

· Typical kitchen equipment (e.g. blender, oven, Thermomix)

· Basic laboratory equipment (e.g., pH meter, viscometer, homogenizer).

 

Working Conditions

· Interacts closely with personnel in other departments and Company locations.

· Interacts closely with middle and senior management personnel.

· Extensions of regular working hours are occasionally necessary to complete time-sensitive projects or to respond to emergencies.

 

Decision Making/Accountability

· Handle and report issues or questions as directed by Livermore facility Management. Prioritizes personal workload throughout the day to ensure meeting of deadlines.

What We Offer

We provide a dynamic and stimulating international environment, which will stretch and develop your abilities and channel your skills and expertise with outstanding career development opportunities in one of the largest and most solid private companies in the world.

- Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance and disability coverage

- 401k with Company Match

- Family Friendly Benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family building benefits

- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays

- Flexible work available (not applicable to all roles)

Diversity & Inclusion

LDC is driven by a set of shared values and high ethical standards, with diversity and inclusion being part of our DNA. LDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity, equity and inclusion.

LDC encourages diversity, supports local communities and environmental initiatives. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

Equal employment opportunity (EEO)

Louis Dreyfus Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Sustainability

Sustainable value is at the heart of our purpose as a company.

We are passionate about creating fair and sustainable value, both for our business and for other value chain stakeholders: our people, our business partners, the communities we touch and the environment around us