About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global leader in the food and beverage industry, renowned for iconic brands enjoyed by over 1 billion people daily. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, with key R&D hubs in Plano, Texas, and Valhalla, New York, PepsiCo fosters a culture of innovation, calculated risks, and challenging the status quo. As a playground for curious minds, PepsiCo invites thinkers, doers, and changemakers to drive positive change. Our associates are the magic ingredient, creating deep connections between people and products like Pepsi, Lay's, Gatorade, and more. Joining PepsiCo means being part of a supportive, inclusive environment where you can dare to be yourself, learn, grow, and make a global impact. Dare for Better with us.

Role Overview

The 2026 Co-Op: R&D Packaging position at PepsiCo in Valhalla, New York, offers undergraduate students a prime opportunity to dive into research and development within the packaging sector. This hands-on co-op role focuses on package development, testing, and innovation tailored to channels like Target, Wal-Mart, and Sam's Club. You'll work on real-world projects, from material qualification to distribution system assessments, gaining exposure to industry challenges. With 15-20% travel to headquarters and manufacturing plants, this role enhances your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and communication with cross-functional teams. Ideal for packaging majors, it's a stepping stone to full-time opportunities at PepsiCo.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic co-op, you'll contribute to high-impact projects that shape PepsiCo's packaging future. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting channel-specific initiatives like package development, testing, and results evaluation.
• Conducting plant trials, developing pallet patterns, and coordinating with manufacturing plants and suppliers.
• Identifying packaging materials based on physical properties and applications, while liaising with vendors.
• Planning and executing independent and team-based experiments in labs and plants.
• Presenting project findings to leadership, honing your communication skills.

These tasks build a strong foundation in consumer goods packaging, preparing you for industry leadership.

Qualifications & Requirements

PepsiCo seeks highly energetic, creative, and motivated students for this role. Essential qualifications include:

• Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Packaging or related majors (other fields considered).
• Completion of at least 300-level courses (or equivalent) prior to co-op start.
• Basic knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and distribution systems.
• Strong individual and team-working capabilities, with excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Must graduate within one year of co-op completion and have indefinite right to work in the United States.

No prior experience required—just passion and readiness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

Example Projects

Gain exposure through projects like developing new offerings for key customers, assessing distribution systems, and conducting research to identify white space opportunities in packaging innovation.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo values its co-ops, offering competitive compensation and growth potential. Enjoy hourly pay ranging from $21.60 to $55.40, determined by role, degree, level, and location—pre-determined and non-negotiable. We prioritize converting top performers to full-time roles with comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, disability coverage, health and dependent care reimbursement accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), accident, group legal, and life insurance, plus a Defined Contribution Retirement Plan. Additional perks include paid travel and professional development opportunities.

Career Growth

This co-op is designed to supercharge your career. Goals include enhancing technical understanding of packaging materials, expanding critical problem-solving through qualification plans, improving communication via cross-functional interactions, and gaining insights into consumer goods organizations. Many co-ops transition to full-time R&D positions at PepsiCo's headquarters or satellite locations. Build a network, develop unique skills, and position yourself for long-term success in the food and beverage industry.

Why Join Us

At PepsiCo, you're not just an intern—you're an innovator shaping the future of packaging. Work in Valhalla, New York, near our Purchase headquarters, amid a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion. Influence global products, collaborate with industry leaders, and tackle real challenges like sustainable packaging and customer-specific solutions. With a commitment to EEO and fair chance hiring, PepsiCo welcomes qualified applicants from all backgrounds. Join a team that's daring for better and make your mark on brands loved worldwide.

Role FAQs

What is the duration of the co-op?

The program aligns with your academic schedule, typically spanning a semester or summer, with placement discussions during interviews.

Is travel required?

Yes, expect 15-20% travel to headquarters in Plano, TX, Purchase/Valhalla, NY, and manufacturing plants.

Can this lead to full-time employment?

Absolutely—PepsiCo loves converting high-performing co-ops to full-time roles with robust benefits.

What salary can I expect?

Hourly rates range from $21.60 to $55.40, based on specific factors; full-time estimates post-conversion: $65,000-$95,000 annually.

Are there location preferences?

Primarily Valhalla, NY, or Plano, TX, with satellite options discussed in interviews.