As stated in the Land O'Lakes Job Posting policy, all employees who post for an internal opening must inform their current manager at the time they apply.
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Feed Mill Operations Intern
Position Summary: 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
Internship Duties: FEED MILL OPERATIONS & PRODUCTION 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. QUALITY ASSURANCE & COMPLIANCE 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. SAFETY & MAINTENANCE Observe and help implement safety procedures for equipment and facility operations. Participate in scheduled maintenance and cleaning of mill equipment and facilities. OPERATIONS SUPPORT & TEAMWORK 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. SALES PROJECTS 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.
Program Structure & Support: Interns are Land O'Lakes employees and receive training, mentorship, and support from Purina Animal Nutrition experts. Placement is determined by participating dealer/co-op locations. Interns spend majority of their time on feed mill operations, with structured projects designed to support business growth and develop operational skills.
Competencies and Qualifications: 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.
Preferences: 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.
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