R&D Summer Internship at Hershey – Cocoa Science Intern R&D Summer 2026 – Apply Now
Are you seeking a cocoa science internship or a food science summer internship that offers real R&D experience? Hershey in Pennsylvania has a Cocoa Science Intern position for Summer 2026, where interns will prototype, experiment with new ingredients, work with pilot-plant equipment, and scale concepts toward commercialization. This role is ideal for juniors/seniors in agronomy, plant science, or food science looking to build skills in product development, R&D, and cocoa process innovation.
About Hershey
The Hershey Company, based in Hershey, PA, is a global leader in chocolate and confectionary products. Hershey is known for its innovation in product development, sustainable sourcing, and high standards of quality. The company offers internship programs that give students practical experience with R&D, pilot plants, and cross-functional collaboration. Hershey values safety, scientific rigor, and developing new food technologies.
Future Opportunities Cocoa Science Intern R&D (Summer 2026) Details:
Requisition Number: 126167
Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States
Duration: May 2026 – August 2026
internship Overview
Hershey Company’s Technical Center is offering a Cocoa Science Internship in R&D for May through August 2026. This is a hands-on summer internship for food science, plant science, or agronomy undergraduates who want to work on new product concepts, prototype development, process improvements, and pilot-scale commercialization of cocoa-based technologies. Interns will collaborate with scientists, sustainability, procurement, engineering, and R&D to drive innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct benchtop development and prototype evaluation of new cocoa ingredients or formulations.
- Execute experiments on pilot-plant equipment; scale successful lab prototypes toward full manufacturing scale.
- Analyze experimental data; test ideas using scientific principles and rigorous methods.
- Contribute to research projects focused on product/process improvements, new product opportunities, and technical feasibility.
- Work cross-functionally with R&D, supply chain, production, and marketing teams to ensure alignment and commercialization potential.
Education:
- Majors: Food Science
- Pursuing at least an undergraduate Bachelor’s degree (preferably junior or senior)
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
Experience: Prior internships with related experience are highly valued
Minimum Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Strong interest in practical work and scientific principles
- Highly motivated and comfortable with laboratory equipment
- Proficient in communication, problem-solving, and troubleshooting
- Able to work independently and in a team environment
Additional Information:
- Prospective candidates must have access to reliable transportation
- Interns may handle allergens with proper safety measures
Keywords: Hershey Company, Cocoa Science Intern, R&D Internship, Food Science, Research & Development, Summer 2026, Pennsylvania
