2026 Co-Op: R&D Packaging

Overview

2026 Co-Op: R&D (Research & Development) Packaging at PepsiCo. We invite curious thinkers, doers, and changemakers to champion innovation, take calculated risks, and challenge the status quo. Join a global team of innovators who create, move, and sell products enjoyed by billions. This program offers opportunities to learn, develop, and grow in a supportive environment with potential for full-time opportunities upon completion.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to channel-specific project initiatives, including package development and testing, results evaluation, plant trials, and coordinating with manufacturing plants and suppliers.
• Utilize critical thinking to plan and coordinate individual activities contributing to project results.
• Identify suitable packaging materials based on physical properties and applications, coordinating with vendors as needed.
• Coordinate and perform independent and team experiments in laboratory and manufacturing plant settings.
• Present project results and findings to leadership upon completion of the internship.
• Travel to headquarters and manufacturing plants as required (approximately 15–20%).

Program Goal

• Enhance technical understanding of core packaging materials with exposure to industry-relevant challenges.
• Expand critical problem-solving and decision-making skills through development and execution of qualification plans.
• Improve communication with cross-functional teams and leadership alignment.
• Gain a better understanding of the consumer goods organization.

Examples of Projects

• Development and qualification of new offerings for specific customers (e.g., Target, Walmart, Sam’s Club).
• Assessment of internal and external distribution systems for channel packaging.
• Research and benchmarking studies to identify “white space” for future packaging development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Packaging (other related majors will be considered).
• Completed at least 300-level courses (or equivalent per school guidelines) prior to beginning the co-op.
• Basic knowledge of packaging materials, packaging manufacturing processes, and distribution systems.
• Ability to work independently and in teams; highly energetic, creative, and motivated individuals.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Requirements

• Graduation with a bachelor’s degree within one year of co-op completion.
• This position is limited to individuals with indefinite right to work in the United States.
• Compensation ranges for 2026 campus intern openings: $21.60–$55.40 per hour (hourly pay pre-determined and non-negotiable).
• Role, degree discipline, degree level, and location will be considered when determining the starting salary.
• PepsiCo encourages converting interns to full-time opportunities; full-time roles include a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits (Full-Time Opportunities)

• Medical, Dental, Vision; Disability and Health/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP); Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life)
• Defined Contribution Retirement Plan

EEO Statement

PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status. For information about EEO rights, please view the EEO policies and Pay Transparency Statement provided by PepsiCo.