Food Product Development Intern – Decatur, IL

Job Description

• Join an award-winning early career program designed to help students build professional skills, explore career interests and gain exposure to ADM’s business and culture.
• Work for a global leader connecting farmers, customers and consumers through an extensive agricultural supply chain.
• Gain meaningful experience with a company focused on innovation, sustainability and strengthening the global food system.
• Build connections with colleagues, mentors and fellow interns across ADM.

• Education: Currently pursuing a four-year degree with an expected graduation date between December 2027 and summer 2029.
• Academic performance: Minimum overall GPA of 2.8.
• Transportation: Must have reliable transportation to and from the assigned work location.
• Geographic flexibility: Willingness to relocate to an ADM location in North America.
• Availability: Must be available for a 12-week internship from mid-May through early August 2027.
• Background check: Successful completion of a background check is required.
• Work authorization: ADM is unable to provide work visa sponsorship for this position.

• Expand your skills through LinkedIn Learning courses, language training and mentoring programs.
• Participate in Employee Resource Groups that promote connection, support and professional growth.
• Access ADM’s Employee Assistance Program for resources supporting personal and professional well-being.
• Attend professional development sessions focused on career readiness, networking, personal branding and building a professional digital presence.
• Connect with ADM leaders, colleagues and fellow interns across the organization.
• Be considered for a future internship or full-time opportunity based on performance and business needs.

• Assist in the formulation and development of food products utilizing plant-based proteins such as pea, soy, wheat, bean, and other emerging protein sources.
• Prepare bench-top prototypes and conduct laboratory-scale trials.
• Evaluate ingredient functionality, including solubility, emulsification, gelation, water-holding capacity, foaming, texture, and sensory attributes.
• Collect, analyze, and document experimental data using established laboratory procedures.
• Conduct competitive product evaluations and benchmark studies.
• Support shelf-life, stability, and process optimization studies.
• Maintain detailed project records, formulations, and technical reports.
• Assist with sample preparation and internal or customer demonstrations.
• Follow all food safety, laboratory safety, and quality procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional groups including Marketing, Regulatory, Quality, Operations, and Sales teams on assigned projects.
• Participate in team meetings and present project findings to technical and business stakeholders.

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Nutrition, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum sophomore standing with coursework in food science or related technical fields.
• Basic understanding of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, and food processing principles.
• Strong organizational and laboratory skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently in a laboratory environment.

• Coursework or project experience involving plant proteins, alternative proteins, food ingredients, or product development.
• Experience with sensory evaluation techniques.
• Familiarity with experimental design and statistical analysis.
• Previous laboratory, pilot plant, or food manufacturing experience.
• Passion for innovation in sustainable food systems and alternative proteins.

• Plant protein functionality and application development.
• Product formulation and optimization techniques.
• Food analytical methods and sensory evaluation.
• Innovation project management.
• Commercialization processes within the food ingredient industry.
• Cross-functional collaboration in a global food and agriculture company.

• Ability to stand for extended periods in laboratory and pilot plant environments.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work safely around food processing equipment and laboratory instruments.

• Scientific curiosity and problem-solving mindset.
• Attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Initiative and willingness to learn.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced innovation environment.

• : $21-$24
• Ref ID: #LI-DNI