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Food Microbiology Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Microbiology Lab Technician

Valhalla, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $26/hr

... Food Science, or related discipline with microbiology coursework/labs. Experience : 1-3+ years hands-on experience in a microbiology lab (or equivalent academic, internship or co-op experience ...

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Food Microbiology Internship information

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$13

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How much do food microbiology internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for food microbiology internship in the United States is $21.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food microbiology internship?

A Food Microbiology Internship is a temporary position designed for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of food microbiology. Interns typically work in laboratories, assisting with testing and analyzing food samples for microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts, and molds that can affect food safety and quality. The internship provides exposure to standard microbiological techniques, data analysis, and regulatory standards relevant to the food industry. It is an excellent opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting and build skills necessary for a career in food safety or quality assurance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food microbiology intern?

To thrive as a Food Microbiology Intern, you need foundational knowledge in microbiology, food safety, and laboratory techniques, often gained through coursework in biology or food science. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sterile techniques, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate data collection and collaboration with lab teams. These competencies ensure reliable testing, uphold food safety standards, and support quality assurance within the food industry.

What types of laboratory techniques and equipment will I typically use during a food microbiology internship?

During a Food Microbiology Internship, you will commonly work with techniques such as aseptic sampling, serial dilutions, plating, and microbial enumeration. You’ll get hands-on experience with equipment like autoclaves, incubators, laminar flow hoods, and microscopes. Interns often assist with testing food samples for pathogens, spoilage organisms, and indicator organisms, and may also learn molecular biology methods such as PCR. Collaboration with quality assurance and R&D teams is frequent, offering insight into both research and industry-standard food safety protocols.

What is the difference between Food Microbiology Internship vs Food Microbiologist?

AspectFood Microbiology InternshipFood Microbiologist
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in microbiology, food science, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in microbiology, food science, or related field; professional certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, food production facilities, research labsLaboratories, food manufacturing plants, quality assurance departments
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by food companies, research institutions, and universitiesFood manufacturing companies, regulatory agencies, research institutions

The main difference between a Food Microbiology Internship and a Food Microbiologist is experience level and responsibilities. Internships are entry-level positions designed for students or recent graduates to gain practical experience, while Food Microbiologists are full-time professionals responsible for conducting microbiological testing, ensuring food safety, and compliance. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a Food Microbiologist.

More about Food Microbiology Internship jobs

What cities are hiring for Food Microbiology Internship jobs?

Cities with the most Food Microbiology Internship job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Microbiology jobs?

The most popular types of Food Microbiology jobs are:

What states have the most Food Microbiology Internship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Food Microbiology Internship jobs include:

Infographic showing various Food Microbiology Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,914 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Microbiology Intern, Summer 2027

The J.M. Smucker Company

Orrville, OH • On-site

$21.50 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct routine microbiological testing on finished goods and environmental samples

  • Support laboratory projects and conduct microbiological reporting within company databases

  • Manage an individual microbiological project requiring a presentation at the end of the internship


J.M. Smucker rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Your Opportunity as a Microbiology Intern
As an intern within our Microbiology Lab, you will complete routine microbiological testing on finished goods and environmental samples. You will provide laboratory support and complete microbiological reporting within company databases. You will also conduct general laboratory upkeep and will manage an individual microbiological project resulting in a presentation at the end of the internship term.
You will gain meaningful and translatable experience from the real work you will be provided, relationship management, and professional development.
Location: Orrville, Corporate Offices
Work Arrangements: 100% on -site expectations
In this role you will:
  • Conduct routine microbiological testing on finished goods and environmental samples

  • Support Laboratory projects

  • Conduct microbiological reporting within Smucker databases

  • Provide general laboratory upkeep

  • Manage an individual Micro project requiring a presentation at the end of the internship

  • Support ISO certification

What we are looking for:
  • A Sophomore, Junior or Senior standing in school with requisite educational experience in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related field

  • A well-rounded skill set including strong time-management, communication, teamwork skills, and a strong chemistry and mathematics background

  • General laboratory experience and aseptic technique practices

Application Period:
  • Application period closes on November 6th, 2026

Why Choose the J.M. Smucker Company's Internship Program?
Are you seeking an exceptional internship experience at a Fortune 500 company? At Smucker, we are dedicated to providing a world-class, award-winning internship that offers you the opportunity to:
  • Learn: Unlock your potential in a collaborative and supportive environment where you are treated like a true peer and challenged to be your best.

  • Grow: Benefit from hands-on training with a dedicated mentor and connect with peers and leaders throughout the company.

  • Lead: Contribute to high-profile projects that support our Company's growing categories like snacks, coffee and pet food.

Additional Perks:
Along with engaging work, we offer a variety of benefits to ensure your internship is both rewarding and memorable. These include:
  • Unique opportunities to network and interact with company leadership

  • Customized professional development sessions

  • Networking events and social outings with fellow interns

  • Access to a fully equipped fitness center, complete with a basketball court, indoor walking track, and recreational league sports

  • The Orchard, our gourmet cafeteria, offering breakfast and lunch with seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients

  • A competitive compensation package, including paid corporate holidays

  • Compensation range: $21.50/hr- $25.00/hr

  • **Actual hourly rate is determined based upon the year of college that will be completed at the start of the internship**

  • A housing stipend for interns relocating for the program

Experience an internship where you can learn, grow, and lead - all while being part of something special at Smucker.
The Right Place for You
We are bold, kind, strive to do the right thing, we play to win, and we believe in a strong community that thrives together. Our culture is rooted in our Basic Beliefs, and we believe in supporting every employee by meeting their physical, emotional, and financial needs.
Stay connected with us on LinkedIn®
The Right Place for You
We are bold, kind, strive to do the right thing, we play to win, and we believe in a strong community that thrives together. Our culture is rooted in our Basic Beliefs, and we believe in supporting every employee by meeting their physical, emotional, and financial needs.
Stay connected with us on LinkedIn®
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, age, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.

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