R&D Engineering Intern

Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Our activities span the entire value chain from farm to fork, across a broad range of business lines, we leverage our global reach and extensive asset network to serve our customers and consumers around the world. Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, Louis Dreyfus Company is active in over 100 countries and employs approximately 17,000 people globally.

LDC’s R&D group is looking for a motivated and driven intern to join our exciting plant protein team in Livermore, CA! You will be involved with various lab-scale and pilot plant-scale operations as well as making real changes to the future of food. 

The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about hands-on work with operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting pilot plant and laboratory process equipment. We are looking for an individual who is willing to put in the work to get the job done. 

Main responsibilities:  

• Set up, operate, and accurately record pilot process operations 
• Run basic analytical chemistry tests and measurements 
• Perform routine CIP (clean-in-place) and COP (clean-out-of-place) procedures of process equipment 
• Understand and execute tasks as directed and as laid out in standard operating procedures 
• Carry out basic troubleshooting of equipment in assigned areas 
• Keep order and hygiene in all areas 
• Practice LDC’s safety standards at all times  

Role requirements: 

• A genuine desire to work in plant-based ingredients and food space 
• Capacity to work independently within defined experimental frame  
• Excellent hands-on skills and proven problem-solving mindset 
• Great capacity to learn quickly and perform in a fast-paced environment 
• Ability to solve complex problems and make decisions with a data-driven approach and a goal-oriented mentality 
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to contribute effectively as an individual and collaborate as part of a team 
• Demonstrated communication skills to provide feedback for continuous process improvement purposes  
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
• Commitment to safety, health, and environment (SHE) 

Education:   

• Pursing a bachelor’s degree or associate degree in in chemical or food engineering or relevant field
• Hands-on experience working in a pilot or manufacturing environment preferred but not required

Languages:  

• Written and verbal English language proficiency  

Diversity & Inclusion 

LDC is driven by a set of shared values and high ethical standards 

Diversity is part of our DNA. LDC strives to create a diverse and inclusive work environment where people can thrive regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity or background. 

Sustainability 

Sustainable value is at the heart of our purpose as a company 

We are passionate about creating fair and sustainable value, both for our business and for other value chain stakeholders: our people, our business partners, the communities we touch and the environment around us.

What We Offer

We provide a dynamic and stimulating international environment, which will stretch and develop your abilities and channel your skills and expertise with outstanding career development opportunities in one of the largest and most solid private companies in the world.

- Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance and disability coverage
- 401k with Company Match
- Family Friendly Benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family building benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
- Hybrid work available (not applicable to all roles)

Diversity & Inclusion

LDC is driven by a set of shared values and high ethical standards, with diversity and inclusion being part of our DNA. LDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity, equity and inclusion.

LDC encourages diversity, supports local communities and environmental initiatives. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

Equal employment opportunity (EEO)

Louis Dreyfus Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Sustainability

Sustainable value is at the heart of our purpose as a company.

We are passionate about creating fair and sustainable value, both for our business and for other value chain stakeholders: our people, our business partners, the communities we touch and the environment around us