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!
Submit your Application today. Application closes On Friday, Oct. 31, 2025.
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 2026
Currently accepting applications.
Description
This internship allows students to be production interns within the production research farm flow. Students will gain experience in farrow-to-finish swine production and, in addition, will be exposed to and assist with research being conducted at multiple sites.
Host: Pillen Family Farms
Location: Nebraska
Duration: Summer, Winter & Midterm Break available
Currently accepting applications.
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
Currently accepting applications.
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 2026
Currently accepting applications.
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
Currently accepting applications.
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
Currently accepting applications.
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
Currently accepting applications.
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
Currently accepting applications.
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
"After interning on a large-scale pig production farm, I gained an incredibly rewarding experience. I had the pleasure of meeting some of the nicest people and walking into a truly welcoming environment every day. During my time there, I gained hands-on experience, strengthened my knowledge of biosecurity protocols, and developed a deeper understanding of how different farms and operations run. Each day brought new tasks that challenged me to stay focused and get the job done. I also had the opportunity to work with pigs of all ages. This experience has confirmed that I want to pursue a future career within the swine industry. This internship made me realize just how vital the agriculture and swine industries truly are!"
"From day one, my internship with Pillen Family Farms and DNA genetics was both exciting and enlightening. I gained hands-on experience across all sectors of the industry, from breeding to finish, working with swine of all ages and gaining a deeper understanding of swine production and genetics. Going into the internship, I had very little swine experience, but the barn supervisors and staff quickly eased those nerves. Everyone was welcoming, supportive, and genuinely wanted me to succeed. There was always encouragement to try again which made the internship enjoyable and rewarding. My goal was to gain valuable hands-on experience and insight into my future career path. Through this internship, I developed a strong interest in animal genetics. While I had specific job responsibilities each day, I also had the chance to assist with various other tasks, allowing me to be involved in every aspect of barn operations in the DNA Nucleus. I’m incredibly grateful that Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics gave me the opportunity to be part of their amazing team. It was an incredible experience that left a lasting impact on me and has helped shape my future career goals!”
"While looking for an internship, I was looking for a new experience with a great company - and I found that at Pillen Family Farms. Over the summer, I worked alongside the veterinary services team, helping farm personnel manage through health challenges as well as build and perform research projects that will benefit the entire system in the long run. As someone with little swine experience, it was an incredible opportunity to see an operation of this scale first-hand and become part of the team. If you’re looking for a great team to work with, a chance to grow your diagnostic and medicine skills, and an opportunity for research and mentorship, this is for you."