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 internship100% onsite (not a remote internship)Pay Rate : $20 - $22 per hourNo relocation or housing assistance providedRequired Skills
JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES
Intermediate knowledge of Word, Excel and PowerPointUnderstanding of scientific methodIntermediate knowledge of microbiology, chemistry, and biologyStrong communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work in a collaborative and inclusive environmentKnowledge of Statistical AnalysisComfortable in laboratory and manufacturing settingsValid drivers license and use of reliable transportationBilingual in Spanish / English is preferredPHYSICAL 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 workweekNo overtime expectedUsing intern's personal vehicle, travel to and from various Dole facilities and / or field locations in the Salinas ValleyRequired Experience
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 fieldEEO 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.
JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES
Intermediate knowledge of Word, Excel and PowerPointUnderstanding of scientific methodIntermediate knowledge of microbiology, chemistry, and biologyStrong communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work in a collaborative and inclusive environmentKnowledge of Statistical AnalysisComfortable in laboratory and manufacturing settingsValid drivers license and use of reliable transportationBilingual in Spanish / English is preferredPHYSICAL 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 workweekNo overtime expectedUsing intern's personal vehicle, travel to and from various Dole facilities and / or field locations in the Salinas Valley
Salary : $20 - $22
