Culinary Innovation & Research Internship
Position Summary
The Culinary Innovation & Research Intern will spend 10 weeks immersed in WesleyLife's culinary culture, operations, and innovation efforts. The ideal candidate is a culinary student, recent culinary graduate, or emerging culinary professional who is passionate about food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and improving the dining experience for older adults. This internship is designed as a talent pipeline opportunity, with the goal of identifying future culinary leaders interested in joining WesleyLife following the completion of the program.
Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities
- Participate in community tours and culinary immersion experiences.
- Research industry-leading adaptive dining and finger-food programs.
- Develop creative culinary concepts and recipes.
- Conduct recipe testing, tastings, and resident evaluations.
- Analyze nutrition, production feasibility, and food costs.
- Create standardized recipes and production procedures.
- Document culinary innovations.
- Gather resident and team member feedback.
- Assist in establishing the framework for future WesleyLife culinary internship programs.
- Present a final project and recommendations to WesleyLife leadership.
Education & Experience
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Food Science, Nutrition, or related program
- ServSafe Certification required
- Passion for culinary innovation and hospitality
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Previous restaurant, hotel, healthcare, or foodservice experience preferred
- Interest in senior living, wellness, healthcare dining, or culinary research and development
- Interest in pursuing a culinary career within WesleyLife following internship completion