Feed Mill Operations Intern
About The Position
As a Feed Mill Operations Intern, you will be employed by Land O'Lakes, Inc. and placed with a participating Purina Animal Nutrition dealer or cooperative. You will work alongside feed mill managers, operations staff, and the Purina team to gain hands-on experience in feed manufacturing, mill operations, and quality assurance, with exposure to select sales-focused projects. Interns will receive training through Purina Animal Nutrition, and the working location is dependent on dealer/co-op assignment. Internship Duration: May - August 2026 (flexible start and end dates) Feed Mill/Operation Locations May Include: Rock Valley, IA
Requirements
- Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Engineering, or related field (Sophomore, Junior, or Senior status preferred).
- Demonstrated leadership in school, academic, or industry-related clubs.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in mill/farm environments.
- Valid, unrestricted driver's license and satisfactory driving record.
- Must be able to live within commuting range of assigned dealer/co-op location.
Nice To Haves
- Understanding of feed manufacturing, mill operations, and safety practices.
- Previous experience in operations, manufacturing, or customer-facing roles preferred.
- Strong communication, organization, and critical thinking abilities.
- Ability to manage time, prioritize tasks, and implement projects independently.
- Collaborative mindset with openness to feedback and learning.
- Adaptability to changing business environments and operational needs.
Responsibilities
- Support daily feed manufacturing processes, including batching, mixing, and bagging of feed products.
- Assist with equipment maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting under supervision.
- Participate in inventory management, including receiving shipments, verifying quantities, and monitoring stock levels.
- Learn and apply feed safety protocols, including HACCP and FSMA compliance.
- Assist with product traceability, recordkeeping, and regulatory documentation.
- Support quality control checks to ensure product specifications are met.
- Observe and help implement safety procedures for equipment and facility operations.
- Participate in scheduled maintenance and cleaning of mill equipment and facilities.
- Collaborate with mill staff to optimize workflow and efficiency.
- Attend department meetings and contribute to operational planning.
- Shadow supervisors to learn about leadership, team management, and cooperative policies.
- Support select sales initiatives, such as assisting with customer service, order management, or participating in dealer events.
- Gain exposure to the sales cycle and customer engagement as opportunities arise.
Benefits
- Benefits for most full-time roles include medical, dental, vision, PTO, life & disability insurance, education assistance, a 401k and a variety of well-being resources.
- Most part-time employees are eligible for prorated PTO, holiday pay, employee development programs, prorated education assistance, and a 401(k).
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Intern
Industry
Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
