Food Safety Quality Assurance Supply Chain Intern

General Description

The Food Safety Quality Assurance (FSQA) Supply Chain Intern will help establish a baseline understanding of quality performance of leafy greens in the field, at the processing facility, and in the warehouse (Cooler); identify common failure points, and recommend procedural improvements to support more consistent quality outcomes.

Major Responsibilities and Tasks/Duties of the Position

• Learn basic quality attributes for leafy greens and conduct quality evaluations
• Define and standardize defect names and categories (e.g. decay, wilting, discoloration, bruising) for each commodity, with relevant photo examples
• Establish a baseline quality profile for each commodity at receipt, and at finished product
• Identify where quality breaks down most often (arrival, storage, handling)
• Collect available data into a single, simple tracking format
• Compare and analyze quality trends across products, suppliers, and seasons
• Create If/Then Flow Diagram based on specs, capabilities and rejection data
• Make recommendations for the creation or modification of SOPs for product quality improvement
• Collaborate with R&D, Ag Operations, FSQA Operations, and Plant Operations teams on quality-related issues
• Create and deliver a final presentation to the executive team
• Other duties as assigned

Internship Details

• Summer 2026, 12-week internship
• 100% onsite (not a remote internship)
• Pay Rate: $20 - $22 per hour
• No relocation or housing assistance provided

Job Specific Competencies

• An Intermediate (or Advanced) skill level with Excel and statistical analysis skills required
• Strong attention to detail and data management experience preferred
• Solid analytical and critical thinking skills strongly preferred
• Strong organizational, computer, and communication skills preferred
• Valid driver's license and use of reliable personal transportation is required

Physical Requirements

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time; use hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; talk or hear.
• Ability to maneuver around an array of equipment, bend, stoop, climb stairs, lift up to 25 pounds, identify and distinguish colors, and work in a cold environment.
• Ability to walk on uneven ground
• Ability to work in various weather conditions

Work Hour & Travel Requirements

• Full time, 40-hour workweek, no overtime expected
• Using a company vehicle, travel to and from various company facilities and/or field locations in the Salinas Valley

Education Level and Fields of Study

Fall 2026 rising junior, senior or graduate student obtaining a degree in Agricultural Science, Plant Science, Horticulture, Biology, Food Science, Environmental Science, Post-Harvest, or a related field

Pay Rate

• $20 - $22 per hour

EEO Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.