Research & Development Intern

About the Role

Barry Callebaut is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research & Development Summer Intern to support the launch and operational readiness of our new Chicago Innovation Center, opening in 2026. This internship provides hands-on experience in developing documentation, establishing operational processes, and supporting the commissioning of a state-of-the-art R&D facility.

The intern will work closely with the R&D team to ensure that equipment, workflows, and quality systems are properly defined, documented, and implemented. This role is well-suited for individuals who are organized, process-driven, and interested in how innovation environments are built and maintained.

This internship offers meaningful exposure to operational excellence within an R&D setting, providing experience in documentation development, process design, and facility commissioning as part of a major strategic initiative for Barry Callebaut.

Job Responsibilities Include

• Assist in the qualification and commissioning of laboratory and pilot-scale equipment, ensuring documentation is complete and accurate
• Support the creation, review, and standardization of operating procedures, work instructions, and quality protocols for the Innovation Center
• Contribute to the development of operational workflows, documentation systems, and process controls to support daily R&D activities
• Help organize and maintain documentation repositories to ensure compliance and ease of access
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather information, validate processes, and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Participate in the setup of the innovation environment to ensure operational readiness and alignment with customer experience objectives

About You

• Education: Currently pursuing a degree in Food Science, Food Process Engineering or Chemical Engineering.

• Strong attention to detail with an interest in documentation, process development, or quality systems
• Analytical mindset with the ability to translate technical information into clear, structured documentation
• Organized, proactive, and comfortable working in a dynamic environment
• Interest in research, product development, food science, engineering, or related fields 

Why Intern at Barry Callebaut?

• Gain hands-on experience in a global, "BC Next Level" digitalizing environment.
• Hourly pay of $25/hour
• Work in our state-of-the-art Chicago office, home to our Chocolate Academy™.
• Experience a culture that values Flex! (flexibility and togetherness) and celebrates diversity.