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R & D Intern

Saputo · Waupun, WI · Full time

Posted Sep 30, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a lab project where you designed the test yourself.

What they are checking: Whether they can plan an experiment with controls, which R&D work requires.

What interests you about dairy science or cheese making?

What they are checking: Whether they have real interest in the field, which helps them learn fast during the internship.

What would you do

Your pH result on a cheese sample looks very different from yesterday's. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they check calibration, sampling and method before reporting a result as real.

How would you explain a failed specification result to a production supervisor?

What they are checking: Whether they can communicate data clearly and calmly to people outside the lab.

About the work

Which lab tests have you run, like moisture, pH, salt, fat or total solids?

What they are checking: Whether they have real bench experience with the dairy analyses the posting lists.

Walk me through how you would run a Mojonnier fat test or a Kjeldahl protein test.

What they are checking: Whether they understand the steps and sources of error in classic dairy methods.

How do you calibrate and maintain lab equipment so the results can be trusted?

What they are checking: Whether they see calibration and records as what makes lab data believable to customers and regulators.

What is organoleptic analysis, and how would you keep it consistent?

What they are checking: Whether they understand sensory testing and the need for standard conditions and trained judgment.

What do Good Manufacturing Practices mean for someone working in a plant lab?

What they are checking: Whether they understand that the lab must follow GMPs to avoid contaminating product or samples.

How do you keep track of samples and results so nothing gets mixed up?

What they are checking: Whether they are organized enough to keep sample chain and data accurate across many tests.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Saputo.

At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world . As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. Ready to bring your best? Job Description/Job Posting As a Research & Development Intern you will research, design, and evaluate materials, assemblies, processes, and equipment within the plants. You will also sample numerous milk, whey, and cheese products to ensure that they meet customer, government, and Saputo projects as well as analyze the results. Other duties will be carried out as requested. How You Will Make Contributions That Matter: • Responsible for microbiological, analytical, and organoleptic analysis of all milk, whey, and cheese products for conformance to government, customer, and Saputo specifications. Must be able to perform all lab testing. • Responsible for understanding and complying with the Good Manufacturing Practices. • Perform sample preparation and any analytical tests as needed, including moisture, pH, salt, fat, total solids, chlorides, COD, rennet, starter activity, mojonnier, kjeldahls, Gel Electrophoresis etc. Interpret the results. • Set-up, operate, maintain, clean, and calibrate all pieces of lab equipment on a daily basis. • Sort and analyze sample results efficiently and ensure information is reported in a timely manner. • Responsible for awareness of all aspects of laboratory testing and quality related tasks. • Provide Technical Support to designated plants in the U.S. • Maximize plant profitability by monitoring raw material utilization, plant efficiencies, ingredient recoups and analytical targets. • Monitor and maintain or improve the quality of products from plants. • Review and analyze problems in plant and be part of corrective action. • Review cheese make records and make recommendations for improvement. • Document all research work and changes or implementations made at plants. • Network with all resources available and keep up on new technologies within the Dairy Industry. • Perform other duties and responsibilities as deemed necessary. • Help aid in the recommending, installation, and commissioning of new plant equipment and processes. • Assist in coordinating product development activities at the plants. You Are Best Suited for The Role If You…. • Have a bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Dairy Technology, or a related field. • Are proficient in data collection, analysis, and reporting using Microsoft Word, graphing, creating, and managing Excel spreadsheets. • Have the ability to define problems, collect data, establishes facts, and draw valid conclusions. • Are able to interpret a variety of technical information in mathematical and/or narrative form and deal with abstract and concrete variables. • Have the ability to work flexible hours and travel 50% of the time. • Have demonstrated excellent writing skills. • Have the ability to communicate in a professional manner with press and community contacts. • Are self-motivated, possess good organizational skills, are detail-oriented, prioritize accuracy, can multi-task and meet deadlines. • Have experience or education in corporate communications. • Are proficient in the use of word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software • Have the ability to be flexible and work on multiple projects simultaneously. • Have the ability to work scheduled hours and required overtime as needed. • Display traits of reliability, honesty, respect, attention to detail, and punctuality. • Can work independently, and as part of a team. • Demonstrate professionalism and positively represents and promotes Saputo at all times. We Support and Care for Our Employees by Providing Them With… • Development opportunities that enhance you career fulfillment. • Meaningful compensation & benefits that help you care for your family. • Opportunities to contribute to your community and enhance the lives of others through Saputo products. In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products, with a portfolio of well-loved brands such as Stella, Frigo Cheese, Montchevre , Stella, and Treasure Cave. We also boast a strong foodservice presence, partnering with reputable chain restaurants and broadline distributors. Whether your expertise lies in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, sales, quality assurance, or in any other function, your role is integral to our success. You will make contributions that matter, all while working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about your success and who will roll up their sleeves to help. Accessibility Saputo Cheese USA Inc. endeavors to make Saputo.com/careers accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Human Resources at 214-863-2300 or email us.recruitingsupport@saputo.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications. EEO Saputo Cheese USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under law, please visit www.EEOC.gov. California Applicant Privacy Notice (CCPA) To review the Saputo Cheese USA Inc. Privacy Notice for California applicants, please visit our Corporate website associated section by clicking here (English) or here (Spanish).

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