About the role#
The Culinary Innovation & Research Internship is a 10-week program focused on operational culture and innovation. This role is designed to identify future culinary leaders interested in a career at WesleyLife. You will spend your time immersed in our culinary operations and research efforts to improve the dining experience for older adults.
What you'll do#
- Participate in community tours and culinary immersion experiences.
- Research 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 and gather feedback from residents and team members.
- Assist in establishing the framework for future internship programs.
- Present a final project and recommendations to leadership.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in or recent graduation from a Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Food Science, Nutrition, or related program.
- ServSafe Certification.
- Interest in senior living, wellness, healthcare dining, or culinary research and development.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Previous restaurant, hotel, healthcare, or foodservice experience is preferred.
Location & details#
- Johnston, Iowa.
- Summer 2026 term.
- This is a full-time, on-site, paid internship.
About WesleyLife
WesleyLife is a nonprofit organization that provides care and services for older adults. Founded in 1947, the company operates throughout Iowa. Its services include independent and assisted living, rehabilitation, memory support, home care, and hospice. A team of 1,300 employees manages these programs.
How to get in at WesleyLife
Applying early to WesleyLife positions gives you a distinct advantage before the applicant pool grows. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, so you can submit your materials among the first candidates. Getting your application in early ensures your resume is seen before the pile grows too large for recruiters to manage. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the recruiters behind the roles directly. Intern Insider surfaces the specific people managing hiring at WesleyLife so you can ask about the role or request a referral. This direct approach often helps you stand out compared to those who only submit through a standard portal.
