Research & Development Intern

Job Description

Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization.

Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide.

Company Overview

Ensign-Bickford Industries (EBI) is a global leader with a strong reputation for innovation and excellence across multiple industries. AFB International, a member of the EBI family, specializes in palatant manufacturing for the pet food industry. We are committed to developing the next generation of talent through our structured internship program.

Internship Program Overview

The EBI 12-week summer internship program is designed to provide meaningful, hands‑on learning experiences. Interns will work alongside industry professionals on projects that have real business impact while gaining exposure to lean manufacturing practices and continuous improvement initiatives such as process flow optimization and Kaizen methodologies.

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and curious R&D Scientific Interns to join our Research & Development team. This internship offers a hands‑on opportunity to contribute to real-world scientific projects, collaborate with experienced scientists, and gain exposure to the product development lifecycle in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, execution, and analysis of laboratory experiments under the guidance of senior scientists.
• Collect, organize, and interpret experimental data using appropriate scientific and statistical methods.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate findings.
• Support ongoing research projects related to [e.g., formulation, analytical testing, product innovation, etc.].
• Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas to solve technical challenges.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Animal Science or related field).
• Basic laboratory skills and familiarity with common analytical techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, titration, etc.).
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Interest in product development, innovation, or applied Science (preferred).

Program Benefits

• Meaningful projects with measurable business outcomes
• Ongoing coaching and feedback from managers and mentors
• Lunch & Learn sessions with senior leaders and executives
• Networking and social events with peers and professionals
• Exposure to leadership at all organizational levels
• Competitive compensation package, including a housing allowance

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.

For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people. Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents.

Headquartered in St. Charles, Missouri, USA, AFB has offices and production facilities strategically positioned around the globe in the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, the Netherlands, China, and Australia. Our organization is comprised of a variety of departments including research & development, manufacturing & operations, quality assurance and sales & marketing.

AFB is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc., a privately‑held, family‑owned, professionally managed technical business that traces its roots back more than 175 years. Above all else, AFB International values its employees, its customers, the animals they serve and the communities in which we do business. The cornerstone of our enduring legacy is stated in the EBI Core Values.

AFB's global headquarters instituted a dog‑friendly workplace, and the benefits have far exceeded our expectations! The biggest changes we have noticed around the office are: Having dogs here makes us move! Now we have a reason to get up and take a walk outside for some fresh air. It’s amazing how we don’t do this when we are alone but leave it to Fido to make us get up and get in a little exercise. Having dogs here makes us talk! Who needs an icebreaker when you see fellow colleagues walking their beloved pooch? How can you walk by a wagging tail? The dogs make you stop and say hi. Many relationships have been strengthened by having dogs at work. Having dogs here makes us happy! In a fast‑paced workplace, it’s easy to get lost in the daily grind. It’s amazing how many colleagues swing by the office of someone with a pet just to get some fur therapy. They put a smile on your face and remind you to not sweat the small stuff.

Join AFB’s team of experts at our blog site to access and exchange information about the research, trends, and innovations moving the global pet food industry forward. Go to Blog