Food Research Development Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Join a Mission That Matters — Enrich Lives with Butterball® Farms

At Butterball® Farms, we’re more than a butter manufacturer — we’re a purpose-driven organization committed to making a meaningful impact. For over 60 years, we’ve partnered with some of the world’s leading food brands to craft innovative, value-added butter products that bring quality and flavor to millions of tables. Yet what truly sets us apart isn’t just what we make — it’s why we make it. Our mission is simple and powerful: to Enrich Lives, inside and outside our walls.

Recognized as one of West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For, Butterball Farms is where talent is developed, ideas are championed, and collaboration fuels results. We foster an environment where people are empowered to grow, contribute, and lead — because when our team members thrive, our business does too.

We operate as one team, united by shared values and a commitment to continuous improvement. We celebrate wins, learn from challenges, and consistently raise the bar as we evolve and scale. Every new voice strengthens our foundation and helps us build what’s next.

Our dedication to enriching lives extends beyond our products and into the communities we serve. We actively create opportunities for individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system, offering meaningful work and a pathway toward a new future. We believe in second chances, investing in potential, and opening doors that build stronger individuals, stronger families, and stronger communities.

At Butterball® Farms, purpose and performance go hand in hand — and the work we do together truly makes a difference.

The Research & Development Intern will primarily support Butterball Farms' Innovation and R&D team in developing new products and food technologies while serving as a key shared resource for the Quality department. This role provides hands-on experience in product formulation, experimental design, laboratory testing, pilot-scale manufacturing, quality improvement initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration with Quality, Operations, Sales, and Marketing. The ideal candidate is scientifically curious, enjoys solving technical challenges, and is eager to contribute to projects from concept through commercialization while supporting continuous improvement across the organization.

Essential Functions:

• Participate in customer-driven innovation projects from concept through commercialization.
• Contribute ideas and recommendations based on experimental results and scientific observations.
• Design and execute laboratory and production-based experiments to identify opportunities for improving product rework, process efficiency, and product quality.
• Assist the Quality department with product sampling, inspections, documentation, and other quality-related initiatives as assigned.

Other Duties:

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and food safety standards.
• Prepare, package, and ship customer samples, internal evaluation samples, and prototype products.
• Monitor laboratory ingredient and supply inventory; assist with ordering, receiving, and stocking materials to ensure uninterrupted project support.
• Support the preparation of materials and ingredients for laboratory and pilot plant trials.

Education / Certificates / Licenses / Experience

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in food science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Coursework in food chemistry, microbiology, food processing, or product development preferred.
• Previous laboratory or research experience is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong scientific curiosity and analytical thinking.
• Comfortable participating in experimental design.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to collect, organize, and interpret experimental data.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Willingness to learn new laboratory techniques, food processing equipment, and analytical methods.
• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and technical documentation.
• Basic understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and food safety principles, or a willingness to learn.
• Ability to adapt to changing project priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
• Positive attitude with a strong desire to learn and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.