2026 Co-Op: R&D Packaging

Overview

Job Title: 2026 Co-Op: R &D (Research & Development) Packaging

PepsiCo is a playground for curious people. We invite thinkers, doers, and changemakers to champion innovation, take calculated risks, and challenge the status quo. From executives to leaders on the frontline, we're excited about the future. We take chances. Together, we dare to make the world a better place.

Our associates are the magic ingredient. Each of them plays an integral role in helping create deep connections between people and our products. Think about your last group celebration: Chances are, one of our iconic brands was by your side. At PepsiCo, you're invited to be a part of a global team of innovators who make, move, and sell these products-which are enjoyed by more than 1 billion people a day.

A career at PepsiCo means working in a culture where everyone's invited. Here, you can dare to be yourself. No matter who you are or where you're from, you can influence the people around you and the world at large. By showing up, you'll have the opportunity to learn, develop, and grow our unique skill sets at work. Our supportive teams can fuel your professional goals to make a global impact.

Join us. Dare for Better.

Responsibilities

Functional Description:

At PepsiCo we place R&D Full- Time hires primarily in the two headquarter locations: Plano, TX; Purchase/Valhalla, NY (New York). In some cases, Full-Time hires will be placed in satellite locations. Location preferences will be discussed in the interview process.

What you can expect:

In this position you will contribute to channels specific project initiatives, such as package development and testing, results evaluation, conducting plant trials, developing pallet patterns, and coordinating with manufacturing plants and suppliers.

Utilize critical thinking skills to plan and coordinate individual activities that contribute to project results:

• Identification of various packaging materials through individual understanding of necessary physical properties and applications, and coordination with vendors
• Coordinate and perform independent and team experiments in laboratory and manufacturing plants
• Presentation of project results and findings to leadership upon completion of internship
• Some travel to headquarters and manufacturing plants would be required (15-20%)

Goal of Program:

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

Example Projects:

• Development & qualification of new offerings for specific customers (Target, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club)
• Assessment of internal and external distribution systems of channels packaging
• Research & Benchmarking studies to identify "white space" for future packaging development opportunities

Qualifications

What we're looking for:

• Currently pursuing a degree in: Packaging (other related majors will be considered)
• Course Requirements: Student must have completed 300 level courses (or equivalent based on specific school course guidelines) at minimum prior to beginning co-op
• Basic knowledge of packaging materials, package manufacturing processes, and distribution systems
• Capable of working in both individual and team settings
• Seeking highly energetic, creative, and motivated individuals
• Excellent communication and organizational skills

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduate with bachelor's degree within one (1) year of coop completion.
• This position is limited to persons with indefinite right to work in the United States

The expected compensation hourly pay ranges for hires into our 2026 campus intern openings is $21.60 - $55.40 hourly

• Role, degree discipline, degree level, and location are part of the process when determining actual starting salary for positions.
• Hourly pay for our campus hires is pre-determined and non-negotiable.
• We love to convert our interns to full time opportunities! Our full-time positions have a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

EEO Statement

Our Company will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and all other applicable laws, including but not limited to, San Francisco Police Code Sections 4901-4919, commonly referred to as the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance; and Chapter XVII, Article 9 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code, commonly referred to as the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

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 is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity / Age

If you'd like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant under the law, please download the available EEO is the Law & EEO is the Law Supplement documents. View PepsiCo EEO Policy .

Please view our Pay Transparency Statement