2027 Co-Op: R&D Packaging

Overview

At PepsiCo, you’ll have the opportunity to grow your career, make an impact, and help shape what’s next. As one of the world’s leading food and beverage companies, PepsiCo’s brands—including Gatorade, Lay’s, and Quaker—help create smiles with every sip and bite.

PepsiCo’s connected system spans sourcing and growing ingredients with farmers, manufacturing and distributing products, and driving positive impact for its business and communities. PepsiCo employees collaborate across functions, teams, and markets to solve challenges, unlock opportunities, and create meaningful impact for consumers, customers, and communities.

Position Overview

PepsiCo places Research and Development hires primarily in three headquarters locations:

• Plano, Texas
• Purchase/Valhalla, New York
• Chicago, Illinois

Responsibilities

• Contribute to channel-specific project initiatives, including package development and testing, results evaluation, plant trials, pallet pattern development, and coordination with manufacturing plants and suppliers.
• Plan and coordinate individual activities that contribute to project results using critical-thinking skills.
• Identify packaging materials based on their required physical properties and applications, and coordinate with vendors.
• Coordinate and conduct experiments independently and as part of a team 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 needed, approximately 15%–20%.

Program Goals

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

Example Projects

• Develop and qualify new offerings for specific customers, including Target, Walmart, and Sam’s Club.
• Assess internal and external distribution systems for channel packaging.
• Conduct research and benchmarking studies to identify opportunities for future packaging development.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Packaging; other related majors may be considered.
• Completed 300-level courses, or the equivalent based on the school’s course guidelines, before beginning the co-op.
• Basic knowledge of packaging materials, package manufacturing processes, and distribution systems.
• Ability to work independently and in team settings.
• Highly energetic, creative, and motivated.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Minimum Qualifications

• Expected to graduate with a bachelor’s degree within one year of completing the co-op.
• Must have an indefinite right to work in the United States.

Compensation

The expected hourly compensation range for PepsiCo’s 2027 campus intern openings is $21.09–$34.00. Role, degree discipline, degree level, and location are considered when determining the actual starting salary.

Hourly pay for campus hires is predetermined and non-negotiable.

Benefits and Career Opportunities

PepsiCo seeks to convert interns to full-time opportunities. Full-time positions offer a comprehensive benefits package to support employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Disability coverage
• Health and dependent care reimbursement accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Accident, group legal, and life insurance
• Defined contribution retirement plan

Equal Employment Opportunity

PepsiCo is an equal opportunity employer. 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. PepsiCo also considers applicants with criminal histories in accordance with applicable laws.