Packaging Engineering Intern

About the role

Packaging Engineering Intern  Summer Internship 2027: May 31st, 2027 - August 20th, 2027. Location – Low Hybrid  This is a hybrid role, which means that you will have the flexibility to work both onsite and at a distance. You will collaborate onsite at our La Farge, WI office for 3-5 days per week, and the rest of the time you can choose to work remotely or onsite.  Employee Type – Hourly Bonus – No Safety Sensitive – No As an intern, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that supports this mission while gaining valuable hands-on experience. Beyond day-to-day projects, our internship program offers professional development opportunities, networking events with leaders across the cooperative, community involvement experiences, and connections with fellow interns. It's a chance to grow your skills, make an impact, and be part of an organization dedicated to creating a healthier future for people, animals, and the planet. Summary of Role The Packaging Engineering Intern will support the Packaging team in the design, testing, validation, and continuous improvement of packaging solutions for products and materials. This role provides hands-on experience in packaging development, cost reduction initiatives, sustainability projects, supplier collaboration, and manufacturing support. The intern will work closely with engineering, quality, procurement, operations, and suppliers to ensure packaging solutions meet performance, cost, and environmental objectives. Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Packaging Development •Update and maintain packaging specification sheets. •Create and revise unit packs, case packs, and pallet patterns in TOPS. •Review and update packaging drawings and die lines. •Review and approve product specifications and supplier documentation in TraceGains. • Testing & Validation •Verify packaging data including dimensions, weights, case counts, and Ti x Hi configurations. •Analyze pallet utilization and freight efficiency opportunities. •Support data collection and validation for packaging-related projects. •Evaluate blurry or difficult-to-scan barcodes and recommend improvements. • Sustainability & Compliance •Maintain packaging sustainability metrics and reporting databases. •Support Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) packaging compliance activities and deliverables. •Assist in identifying opportunities to reduce packaging material usage and waste. • Cross-Functional Support •Assist with planning and execution of product trials, launches, and packaging changeovers. •Track, document, and summarize packaging-related quality complaints. •Benchmark competitor packaging formats and packaging innovations. •Participate in internal packaging artwork reviews. • Data & Systems Management •Organize and maintain digital packaging libraries and files within SharePoint. •Support packaging data management and documentation accuracy across systems. • Project Management & Administration •Maintain packaging project timelines, including lead times, artwork development, proofing, and implementation schedules. •Coordinate packaging samples, supplier information, and project documentation as needed. Additional Duties and Responsibilities  •Assist in supplier evaluations and review packaging samples and test results. •Maintain accurate project records and engineering documentation •Follow all company safety, quality, and regulatory requirements •All other duties as assigned by supervisor.  Knowledge, Skills and Competencies •Currently enrolled in post-secondary education with one year or less from graduation required. •Currently working towards degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business or Marketing preferred.  •Coursework or experience related to packaging design, materials, manufacturing processes, or logistics. •Familiarity with CAD software. •Experience with data analysis and project management tools. •Strong communication skills; both verbal and written required. •Proficient with Microsoft Office programs required. •Ability to prioritize workload and responsibilities effectively. •Ability to work individually and in a team environment. •Strong organizational and time management skills. •Interest in organic and working with farmers and cooperative business model preferred.  Base hourly wage range: $20.00 per hour Hours per week: 40 hours Internship Program Overview: •Program concludes after 12 weeks •Furnished housing provided or housing stipend •Engaging and project-based experiences with a leading organic food brand •Network and learn from our business leaders in a "Learn The Co-op Series" •Various intern group events held throughout the summer •Interns are paid hourly for time worked •Interns are responsible for transportation to and from work