Rochester, MN; Perham, MN or Barron, WI area

Hormel Foods Family of Companies•Byron, MN

6h•Onsite

About The Position

As a Growout or Breeder Production Intern, you will gain hands-on experience in turkey production while working directly with industry professionals. The internship provides exposure to commercial growout operations and breeder production, offering an understanding of the poultry production lifecycle. The position is based on-site in one of the listed growout or breeder production areas in Minnesota or Wisconsin. The summer internship runs 10–12 weeks, starting in late May and ending in early August. Interns work approximately 40 hours per week in a temporary, full-time, hourly role and may be eligible for overtime based on business needs. Co-op opportunities may also be available, typically lasting 6–8 months. Interns gain practical experience managing growout and breeder turkey operations, receive mentorship from production leaders, and develop leadership, project management, and analytical skills through business-focused work and an independent project. The role includes opportunities to connect with other interns, participate in learning and development sessions, and interact with leaders across the organization.

Requirements

Must graduate in August 2027, December 2027, or May 2028 and major in Agriculture, Animal Science, Poultry Science, Agribusiness, Business, or a related field.
Demonstrated analytical, problem-solving, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
Strong work ethic, initiative, and desire to learn in a production environment.
Ability to meet all biosecurity requirements and work comfortably in a farm or barn setting.
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to and from assigned work locations.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
Must not now, or at any time in the future, require employer sponsorship for a work visa.
Must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

Nice To Haves

Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7.
Previous livestock, poultry, agricultural, or farm experience.
Experience with data analysis, research projects, or production-related coursework.
Strong communication and presentation skills.
Interest in pursuing a career in animal agriculture, production management, or operations leadership.

Responsibilities

Assist with daily management and performance of growout and breeder flocks, including flock health, welfare, biosecurity, and production objectives.
Monitor and analyze production metrics, labor utilization, and operational expenses to support cost-effective flock management.
Partner with farm managers and production leaders to identify opportunities to improve bird performance, efficiency, and animal care.
Participate in breeder flock activities, including production monitoring, egg collection processes, hatchability factors, and reproductive performance management.
Gain exposure to production planning, inventory management, regulatory compliance, and industry best practices.
Design, execute, and present an independent project based on business needs and personal interests; possible topics include production optimization, research trials, data analysis, process improvement, animal welfare, or operational efficiency.
Present project findings and recommendations to production leadership at the conclusion of the internship.

Benefits

Competitive hourly pay of $24.00, paid weekly.
Housing assistance through a housing stipend or company-provided housing, depending on location.
Reimbursement of eligible relocation expenses.
Reimbursement for approved business-related expenses.
Opportunity to participate in a 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
Paid time off (PTO) accrual.
Hands-on experience with a Fortune 500 company.
Professional development opportunities and networking experiences.
Potential consideration for future internships, co-ops, or full-time employment opportunities.
Mentorship from experienced production leaders.
Opportunities to participate in development and learning sessions and interact with organizational leaders.