Corporate Engineering Co-op

About LiDestri Foods LiDestri Foods has grown from our roots as a pasta sauce and salsa manufacturer to become an R&D engine, formulating and producing innovative food products for our national and retailer brand partners. A family-run company based in Rochester, NY, LiDestri employs over 1,000 people across three U.S. locations. We have decades-long partnerships with some of the most respected consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies and the most highly inventive retailer brands. Excellent Pay and Benefits: Great career-pathing Professional development, including unlimited online training courses 401k – with employer match Paid sick time off and paid holidays Statutory benefits POSITION SUMMARY: The Corporate Engineering Co-op will play a key role in supporting new production lines and other strategic engineering initiatives, including automation deployment, kitchen/process improvements, and continuous improvement efforts within a high-speed food manufacturing environment. This position provides hands-on experience in capital project execution, operations support, data analysis, and lean manufacturing practices. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Support execution of new production initiatives, including equipment relocation, line modifications, and startup activities Assist with capital project coordination, including tracking action items, timelines, and deliverables across multiple engineering projects Support automation and labor-reduction initiatives (e.g., material handling, process improvements, equipment integration) Conduct time studies, work measurement, and line balancing to validate improvements and support project justification Analyze production and project data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and optimization opportunities Assist with layout development, equipment placement, and material flow improvements for new and existing processes Support kitchen and process improvements, including throughput optimization and process standardization Participate in continuous improvement initiatives (lean manufacturing, waste reduction, standard work development) tied to project deliverables Support startup, commissioning, and validation activities for new or modified equipment and systems Participate in root cause analysis related to project issues, downtime, and performance gaps following implementation Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure successful project execution Prepare project updates, reports, and executive-ready presentations to communicate progress, risks, and results Maintain compliance with safety, food safety, and quality requirements, and escalate issues appropriately Work in a safe manner consistent with company safety policies and proactively support a strong safety culture REQUIRED EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE: Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering or a related engineering discipline Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with data analysis tools and AutoCAD is a plus Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Strong communication and teamwork skills Willingness to spend time on the production floor Coursework or experience in project management, lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement preferred Familiarity with food manufacturing or high-speed production environments preferred Experience with time studies, process mapping, or statistical analysis preferred WORKING CONDITIONS: Occasionally need to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, with a potential of up to 25 pounds. Exposure to manufacturing plant floor requires the use of personal protective equipment (ear plugs, safety glasses, bump cap, skid-resistant leather shoes, etc.) Minimal travel may be required between facilities. Must follow Good Manufacturing Practice (hair net, no jewelry, no fake nails or eyelashes, no food/drink, gum, etc. in manufacturing Plant) DISCLAIMER: The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed and is not an inclusive summary of job duties and responsibilities. The omission of specific statements of duties or responsibilities does not exclude them from the position. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the Company as the needs of the Company and requirements of the job change.