Growout & Breeder Live Production Intern — Paid + Housing

Hormel Foods; Perham (MN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Hormel Foods offers a Live Production Intern position focused on Growout and Breeder turkey operations, providing hands-on experience in production management, animal welfare, and operational decision-making within a Fortune 500 company.

The internship runs 10-12 weeks in the summer, with possible co-ops, hourly pay of $24.00, and housing/relocation support depending on location. Eligible students gain mentorship and pathways to future opportunities in production leadership.

Qualifications

• 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 within a production environment.
• Ability to meet all biosecurity requirements and work comfortably in a farm/barn setting.
• This position will require a 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-time environment.
• Applicants must not now, or at any time in the future, require employer sponsorship for a work visa
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer

Responsibilities

• Assist with the daily management and performance of growout and breeder flocks, including flock health, welfare, biosecurity, and production objectives.
• Monitor and analyze key production metrics, labor utilization, and operational expenses to support cost-effective flock management.
• Partner with farm managers and production leaders to identify opportunities for continuous improvement in 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. Projects may include production optimization, research trials, data analysis, process improvement, animal welfare initiatives, or operational efficiency studies.
• Present project findings and recommendations to production leadership at the conclusion of the internship.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Team player

Strong work ethic

Education

Agriculture, Animal Science, Poultry Science, Agribusiness, or related field

Job description

Hormel Foods offers a Live Production Intern position focused on Growout and Breeder turkey operations, providing hands-on experience in production management, animal welfare, and operational decision-making within a Fortune 500 company.

The internship runs 10-12 weeks in the summer, with possible co-ops, hourly pay of $24.00, and housing/relocation support depending on location. Eligible students gain mentorship and pathways to future opportunities in production leadership.