International Dairy Leadership Trainee

Accelerate your Canadian career in dairy with our exclusive International Dairy Leadership Trainee Program
—featuring a fully funded Master's in France and a guaranteed role at Lactalis Canada

About Lactalis Canada:

Welcome to Lactalis Canada – Our journey revolves around enhancing the lives of Canadians through a rich variety of dairy delights, including some of Canadian's favourite dairy brands such as like Black Diamond Cheese, Lactantia Milk, Astro Yogurt, Balderson Cheese, and Cheestrings. In fact, we're proud to say our products grace the shelves of an incredible 94% of Canadian households With a 140-year legacy driven by innovation and unwavering quality, we're seeking like-minded individuals to join us in shaping our next chapter.

I2FA Program Details:

Earn a fully-funded Master's degree in Engineering from the prestigious Ecole Supérieure d'Agricultures (ESA) in France This 2-year immersive experience combines world-class academic training with hands-on experience at Lactalis production sites in France. By the end of the program, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to step into a role within Lactalis Canada's operations, helping you build a rewarding career and shape the future of the dairy industry.

What's in it for you:

• Earn a
  Master of Science in Engineering
  at Ecole Supérieure d'Agricultures (ESA), Angers, France.
• Spend
  2 years in France
  with an additional 3 to 6 months of intensive French prior to the program (from February to August 2026).
• Have
  all expenses covered
  – tuition, travel, and insurance
• Study at ESA and gain
  hands-on experience with paid internships
  at two Lactalis manufacturing sites in France.
• Receive
  high level training
  in technical and managerial competencies for dairy production (
  courses are entirely taught in French
  ).
• Upon completion,
  step into a guaranteed role as a Technical Processing Manager
  with Lactalis Canada at one of our Canadian locations. Participants are expected to remain with the company for a minimum of two years after returning to Canada.

What we are looking for:

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in chemical engineering, food science, microbiology, or a related field of study.
• Ambitious students or recent graduates with a passion for growing a career in food manufacturing operations and a keen interest in production processes.
• A strong desire to learn French, no French required to apply, B2 Level French an asset.
• A certified B2 level in English for non-English speaking countries.
• Flexible and willing to relocate within Canada for placement after completion of program.
• Individuals ready for an international experience in France and eager to develop leadership skills.
• A strong motivation for a career in the dairy industry.
• Exceptional communication skills and a genuine drive to overcome challenges.
• Demonstrated leadership through work experiences, volunteer roles, community activities, and sports.
• Team player, with the ability to build and maintain working relationships.
• Candidates must be under the age of 28 on September 1, 2026 to apply (due to French labour law contract).

Program Start Dates:

• Non-French speakers:
  French lessons begin in March, 2026 in Angers, France
• Certified A2 level French speakers:
  French lessons begin June 1, 2026 in Angers, France
• French-fluent candidates:
  Program begins in September 2026

Master's Degree and Internships Rotations Dates:

• September 2026-August 2027:
  Rotate every 3-4 weeks between studying at ESA and interning at a Lactalis site in France
• September 2027-January 2028:
  Full-time academic study at ESA
• February 2028-September 2028
  : Internship at a second Lactalis site in France
• September 2028/October 2028:
  Defend your Master's Thesis at ESA
• October 2028:
  Return to Canada for your guaranteed placement as a Technical Processing Manager at Lactalis Canada

Why join Lactalis?

You'll be part of a global leader in the dairy industry, with endless opportunities to grow and innovate. This is more than just a job—it's a career-defining experience that will set you on a fast track to leadership in one of the world's most dynamic industries.

Ready to take the next step?

Apply now and kick-start your career with a one of a kind opportunity

Our ESG commitment:

Our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) roadmap drives our sustainability mission. We aim to positively impact communities and the planet by enabling stakeholders including our people, consumers, customers, suppliers, dairy farmers, government, and industry partners to have a positive impact on the wellbeing of our communities and the planet through all that we do.

At Lactalis Canada, we value our employees as catalysts for positive change. Together, we will create a sustainable future, promote belonging, and make a lasting impact on the world.

Our commitment to DEI:

Fuel Our Culture with Your Uniqueness Lactalis thrives on the value each person brings. We're dedicated to amplifying diverse voices, inviting personal and professional growth, and embracing everyone's true selves. We're committed to crafting an environment that genuinely welcomes all, reflecting the richness of our people and communities.

Our promise extends to accessible processes and spaces. If you require accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent), please inform our Talent Acquisition team – confidentiality will be maintained.

Note: Lactalis Canada does not conduct credit or background checks through LinkedIn. If required, we'll contact you after signing a Job Offer.