About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global leader in the food and beverage industry, renowned for iconic brands like Quaker Oats, Pepsi, Gatorade, and Lay's. As a Fortune 500 company and one of Canada's Top 100 Employers in 2020, PepsiCo employs innovators who make, move, and sell products enjoyed by over 1 billion people daily. In Canada, PepsiCo Foods Canada drives positive change through sustainability goals, fostering an inclusive culture where employees dare to be themselves and make a global impact.

Role Overview

The Quaker Oats Canada Research & Development Co-op position offers university students a prime opportunity to launch their careers at PepsiCo's Peterborough, Ontario plant. This in-person role, running from January to April 2026 with occasional travel to Mississauga, places you on the Product Development team. You'll support new product launches for the Canadian market, gaining critical exposure to real-world projects, leadership, and innovation in the food industry. Compensation ranges from $25-28 per hour, providing a strong foundation for professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

In this R&D Co-op role, you'll dive into hands-on tasks essential to product innovation. Perform bench top preparation and testing of new or existing products to ensure quality and performance. Assist in developing innovative products tailored for the Canadian marketplace. Support the scale-up and startup of new products and sizes on existing equipment, bridging lab concepts to production. Develop, route, and approve specifications while collaborating with vendors, purchasing teams, and headquarters to qualify new ingredients. Participate in quality improvement, productivity initiatives, and manage analytical testing for ingredient and nutritional data collection.

Daily Impact

Expect to contribute meaningfully from day one, handling multifaceted projects that influence PepsiCo's product portfolio. Your work will directly support launches that reach consumers across Canada, honing skills in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications & Requirements

This co-op is ideal for 3rd or 4th-year students pursuing a Diploma or Degree in Food Science, Engineering, or a related discipline. A high standard of accuracy and attention to detail is paramount, alongside excellent follow-up and organizational skills. You must thrive under deadlines, multitask effectively, and communicate clearly both orally and in writing. Cross-functional collaboration within PepsiCo and with external vendors is key, as is the ability to maintain confidentiality. Strong record-keeping for ingredient and nutrition labelling is essential, with familiarity in regulatory affairs like the Food and Drugs Act and Guide to Food Labelling as a definite asset.

Preferred Experience

While not mandatory, prior exposure to analytical testing or vendor management will set you apart. PepsiCo may use AI-based tools in its hiring process to screen and assess applicants efficiently.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers more than just a paycheck. Earn $25-28 per hour while immersing in a dynamic, inclusive culture that encourages bringing your whole self to work. Enjoy inspiring projects tied to sustainability goals, impacting people and the planet. Benefit from a supportive team dedicated to your professional development, providing mentorship and leadership exposure. This co-op is a gateway to meaningful work with global reach, all within one of Canada's top employers.

Career Growth

PepsiCo's co-op and intern programs are designed to kick-start careers. Management partners with you to build skills, tackle impactful projects, and gain leadership insights. Many co-ops transition to full-time roles, leveraging the company's global network for long-term advancement. Develop expertise in food product development, regulatory compliance, and innovation—skills highly valued in the food and beverage sector.

Pathways Forward

Post-co-op, alumni often pursue roles in R&D, quality assurance, or supply chain at PepsiCo, with opportunities across Canada and internationally. Your experience here builds a resume that stands out to top employers.

Why Join Us

Join Quaker Oats Canada at PepsiCo to be part of a global team of innovators. Work in Peterborough's state-of-the-art plant, influencing products loved nationwide. Dare for Better in an environment where everyone's welcome, skills are nurtured, and contributions drive real change. Whether advancing sustainability or launching new flavors, your role matters. PepsiCo fuels professional goals while making a positive impact on people and the planet.

Role FAQs

What is the term and location?

January 2026 to April 2026, primarily in-person at the Peterborough, ON plant, with occasional travel to Mississauga.

What is the pay range?

$25-28 per hour, competitive for co-op roles in Canada's food sector.

Is this full-time?

Full-time co-op commitment during the winter term.

Do I need prior experience?

Students in 3rd/4th year of relevant programs; regulatory familiarity is an asset.

How does PepsiCo support growth?

Through mentorship, impactful projects, and leadership exposure for career development.