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: nov. 26, 2023
AVAILABLE internship Experiences
Click on the internship title for more information on each specific opportunity.
Host: Pillen Family Farms & DNA Genetics
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer 2024
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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.
Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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.
Host: DNA Genetics
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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.
Host: Pillen Family Farms & DNA Genetics
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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.
Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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.
Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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.
Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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.
Host: Pillen Family Farms & DNA Genetics
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Application deadline: Nov. 26, 2023
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
"During my internship with Pillen Family Farms, I found many reasons why I want to stay within this business. Everyone I worked with was very welcoming and shared the same passion for this industry. With that, I gained in-depth knowledge about the full-cycle from a commercial sow farm all the way to the finishers. This not only helps me further understand how the system works but also how to help produce a better pig. I am very thankful for this opportunity and the amount of support I had throughout my internship."
"Throughout my time with Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, I was able to gain valuable hands-on skills and knowledge associated with large scale swine production. I enjoyed being involved in gilt development research as well as having the opportunity to experience other aspects within the company such as farrowing, breeding and gestation, and visiting one of the gene center facilities. Looking back on this internship, I am very grateful for the experiences I had and the people I met throughout my time there. I know this experience will have a lasting impact on me as I continue down my animal science career path."
"I am so thankful for the opportunity to intern and learn with Pillen Family Farms this past summer! My internship has given me the opportunity to experience the marketing field in a real-world environment. I have developed many skills and have a greater idea of what to expect after college. My internship has provided me an opportunity to take what I've learned in the classroom and apply these lessons to real situations. One of the greatest benefits I've received is the knowledge that I enjoy doing what I've been studying for over these last four years of college. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn and experience the culture of the company."