Internships

At Pillen Family Farms/DNA Genetics, we're always looking for great people to join our dynamic team - and that includes internship positions! We're a family-owned, family-focused business that takes great care in everything we do, from raising highly productive pigs to fostering team member development.

Our internship program provides an in-depth, immersive experience into all areas of our business, from pig care to promoting our genetic program to customers. Each internship is well crafted to provide students of all majors and career goals with quality professional experiences. We have several unique opportunities available for students which vary in scope and location.

Become an Intern!

Application Deadline for all internships: Oct. 31, 2024

AVAILABLE internship Experiences

Click on the internship title for more information on each specific opportunity.

Research


Host: Pillen Family Farms & DNA Genetics

Location: Nebraska 

Duration: Summer 2025


Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

Research interns will have the opportunity to oversee one or more projects within the Pillen Family Farms or DNA Genetic system. Data collected during the internship could be used to present at scientific meetings. Specific responsibilities will depend upon the research project; however, duties could include data management and analyzation and trial implementation.

Commercial Pig Production

Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska 
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available

Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

Through this commercial pig production internship through Pillen Family Farms, students will gain experience in commercial reproduction. Interns will also work in a commercial nursery/finish production system.

DNA Genetics Nucleus

Host: DNA Genetics
Location: Nebraska 
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available

Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

This internship provides students with experience in swine genetics. Students will spend time learning about our gene centers, reproduction units and nursery/finish facilities.  

Marketing & Communications

Host: Pillen Family Farms & DNA Genetics
Location: Nebraska 
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available

Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

This internship is designed for students interested in branding, design and strategic marketing. Interns will help strategize, design and execute consistent marketing materials and messaging through print and digital media.

Mechanic

Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska 
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available

Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

Students will gain experience in several aspects of mechanical and automotive services, including oil changes. auto services, tires, brakes, truck services and trailer equipment.

Milling

Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska 
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available

Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

Pillen Family Farms purchases crops from local farmers to use at its feed mills. Through this internship, students will learn about the feed milling process. Interns will help inspect products for overall quality, manage inventory, meet production schedules and perform daily sanitation measures.

Agronomy

Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska 
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available

Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

Through this agronomy experience, interns will gain a basic understanding of agronomic practices and will assist in field inspections of Pillen Family Farms’ sites and crops. Students may work around lagoons and deep pit barns, operate basic machinery and learn to fix or repair equipment.

Veterinary Internship Program

Host: Pillen Family Farms & DNA Genetics
Location: Nebraska 
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available

Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Description

Interns will obtain a working knowledge of the following:

  • Exposure to swine production and swine veterinary practice.
  • Exposure to genetic pyramid and structure.
  • Hands-on training of technical skills including, but not limited to blood collection, necropsy, tissue collection and submission, production practices.
  • Proficiency in biosecurity practices.
  • Participate in disease workups, disease management, herd health strategy, health assurance and diagnostic interpretations.
  • Opportunity to engage in applied research with option to submit to AASV.

past intern Testimonials

Picture of Tori

Tori

Commercial Pig Production Intern

"I had the opportunity to intern with Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics. It was an experience that exceeded all my expectations! From day one, I felt welcomed into a positive and supportive work environment, which made my time with the company truly enjoyable. I gained hands-on experience across all areas of the farm, working with pigs of various ages and supporting research and trials. This experience has clarified what I am looking for in a future career, reinforcing my desire to become a veterinarian specializing in production!"

Picture of Lizzy

Lizzy

Research & Development Intern

"Entering my internship with Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, I was hoping to gain valuable, hands-on experience in industry research. Not only did I achieve this goal, but I also deepened my understanding of large-scale swine production. Throughout the summer, I assisted with split suckle research, and gained insights into the breeding and farrowing processes. I gained additional experience with collecting blood samples and had the opportunity to visit multiple sites across the system. Reflecting on this experience, I am particularly grateful for the friendships I formed with fellow interns and the interactions I had with team members across various roles. These connections allowed me to learn about their responsibilities and the culture of the company. I am deeply appreciative of the kindness and support shown by everyone at the company, which made this internship truly memorable. The knowledge and skills I’ve gained will be invaluable as I progress in my career."

Photo of Cole Ulmer

Cole

Veterinary Intern

"I am very thankful for the opportunity to intern at Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics. I was able to work with the veterinary team every day to tackle various health challenges that our system faced. Additionally, I was able to see a lot of different sides of the swine industry. I got to work on research, work with production, work with DNA genetics, help on a boar stud, and took a tour of a packing plant. These experiences allowed me to expand my veterinary knowledge and work on interpersonal skills to help me in my future career. Lastly, this experience allowed me to meet a lot of great mentors who will be instrumental in developing my career. Overall, I had an amazing experience that will have a lasting impact on me."