Title R&D Co-op

Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $4 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.

Purpose Statement

Rich’s currently has a great opportunity for a Food Science Co-op, for 12 months, starting in spring 2026. This position is in the Research & Development department, located in Buffalo, New York. This opportunity will allow you to work in our TCCS business (Toppings, Icings, Fillings, Glazes and f'real). In this role, you will utilize your fundamental food science and scientific methodology skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop formulations and process solutions. Projects range from low to high complexity and can include interaction with other global R&D technical associates, suppliers and customers. This opportunity is available to a student who wants to take on new challenges and seeks to gain a practical knowledge of food science and engineering through hands-on experience in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Key Accountabilities And Outcomes

The main activities undertaken in the position will be conducted in the Rich’s R&D laboratory and pilot wet lab in Buffalo, NY. The successful candidate will:

• Develop, document and validate product/process interactions in collaboration with global scientists and engineers.
• Work in the pilot lab/wet lab and operate equipment to make various product samples.
• Conduct routine analytical and performance evaluations accurately and efficiently.
• Maintain a lab notebook by recording results and completing data analysis.
• Organize and prioritize tasks related to project work.
• Summarize results in technical reports when asked and assist in the interpretation of data from experiments/analysis.

Knowledge, Skills, And Experience

• Enrolled in a Bachelor's/undergraduate or master's degree program in food science or food engineering.
• Experience with baked goods, dairy and/or emulsion type food products preferred.
• Efficient in PC/Internet skills, (e.g. Microsoft Office).
• Stat and Stat software knowledge and experience.
• Ability to create flow diagrams and spreadsheets.
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.

Work Environment & Safety Notice

• Research and Development laboratories are not food-allergen-free environments. Individuals with severe food allergies should consider this before applying.
• Employees may occasionally be exposed to Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) detergents through smell or incidental contact during routine operations.
• Exposure to food ingredients, chemicals, and cleaning agents is expected; appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety training will be provided to minimize risks.
• Work may occur in varying temperature environments, including refrigerated and heated areas.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs safely.
• Stand for 6 or more hours during the workday, with opportunities for sitting.
• Regular bending, stooping, crouching, and reaching to access equipment, materials, and storage areas.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and at various heights, including occasional climbing of ladders or steps.
• Push, pull, and maneuver carts, bins, and equipment, including heavy items with the assistance of mechanical aids when necessary.
• Manual dexterity and fine motor skills for handling small components and operating precision instruments.
• Ability to use hand tools and equipment safely and effectively as required for operating various laboratory or production equipment.
• Sensory ability to compare and distinguish differences in ingredients, materials, and products through taste, smell, touch, and visual inspection.
• Ability to follow all safety protocols, including proper lifting techniques and ergonomic practices.

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Compensation

In accordance with state law, the rate or range provided is Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Rich's"), reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may be higher or lower, based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, shift differential, and location.

Annual Range/Hourly Rate

$24.00 - $32.00

Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Rich’s”), are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity, standing up for fairness and maintaining a culture of belonging, to provide an exceptional experience for all. We will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, military or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity, and maintain employment statistics on applicants.

Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on Rich’s. Please contact Rich’s Associate Experience Network at [email protected] if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in the application process.