Quality and Food Safety Intern​/Co-Op

Quality Assurance Intern/Co-op

The Quality Assurance Intern/Co-op will play an active role in strengthening Food Safety and Quality (FSQ) systems within IRCA's manufacturing network. Working under the guidance of site QA leadership, the intern/co-op will apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges by supporting process validation, sanitation optimization, foreign material control, and audit readiness initiatives. The position offers hands-on experience in quality systems management, regulatory compliance, and problem-solving within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

This role is ideal for a student pursuing a technical degree who is eager to learn, collaborate cross-functionally, and contribute meaningful improvements that enhance product quality, operational efficiency, and customer trust.

Reports to:

Quality Assurance Manager and Quality Assurance Supervisor

• Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), and all site Safety and Food Safety requirements.
• Support daily Quality and Food Safety operations, including routine checks, data collection, and documentation.
• Assist with laboratory testing and sample analysis (e.g., micro, physical, or chemical) to verify compliance with product specifications.
• Participate in traceability, sanitation, sensory, and foreign material control projects to strengthen preventive programs.
• Conduct or assist with work center audits (GMP, 5S, sanitation) and support the rollout of digital audit tools (e.g., Intelex).
• Support root cause analysis for non-conformances and aid in implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Help update and organize Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs), and training documents.
• Maintain laboratory and quality records, including product testing results, retain samples, and calibration logs.
• Assist with equipment verification and calibration under supervision of QA staff.
• Participate in customer audit preparation and internal audit readiness activities.
• Help monitor and maintain laboratory inventory (reagents, supplies, PPE, etc.).
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, Maintenance, and Sanitation teams to improve quality awareness and problem-solving.
• Perform other project and support activities as assigned to enhance Food Safety and Quality System performance.

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's or Doctoral degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• Able to collect, analyze, summarize data and make recommendations
• Curious and willing to learn in a regulated environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
• Comfortable asking questions and escalating concerns appropriately
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment (PPE, production floor exposure)
• Exercise good judgment, integrity and respect for food safety culture

$21 - $23 an hour

Work Environment:

This position requires exposures to a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions, handling of certain hazardous chemicals and exposure to common microbiological organisms.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities