Feedlot Intern

Job Summary

Provides hands-on support and gains practical, comprehensive experience across daily feedlot operations, including feeding, cattle health, and facility maintenance. Works closely with team leaders and experienced crew members to learn precision bunk management, ration delivery, and livestock handling. Contributes to a culture of safety and operational excellence while developing the foundational skills necessary for a successful career in the livestock industry.

Job Responsibilities

Safety

• Adhere to a safety-first work environment at all times, leading by example for peers.
• Follow all established safety protocols, including livestock handling safety, safe equipment operation, and proper PPE usage.
• Perform and document daily inspections on assigned equipment; promptly report any hazards or maintenance needs.
• Maintain compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Participate actively in safety meetings and internal training sessions.

Quality

• Assist in mixing, loading, and delivering rations in strict accordance with nutritionist guidelines.
• Learn and apply precise bunk reading techniques to accurately assess livestock feed intake.
• Maintain detailed and accurate logs of feed deliveries, health treatments, or daily tasks as assigned.
• Monitor cattle behavior and pen conditions to support early disease detection and overall livestock health.
• Report any deviations in feed consistency or livestock appearance to supervisors immediately.

Productivity

• Support the execution of daily feeding and processing schedules to ensure timely completion.
• Operate feedlot equipment, trucks, and machinery efficiently to minimize downtime and wear.
• Practice proper feed handling techniques to minimize shrink, waste, and ingredient spoilage.
• Complete assigned tasks-such as pen cleaning, fence repair, or processing-with accuracy and efficiency.
• Assist in routine equipment wash-downs and basic maintenance to ensure operational readiness.

Teamwork

• Accept direction, coaching, and constructive feedback from managers and experienced crew members.
• Promote accountability, respect, and positive communication within the interdisciplinary team.
• Collaborate effectively with the feeding crew, cowboys, nutritionists, and yard maintenance staff.
• Share insights and learning experiences to contribute to the overall success of the internship program.
• Maintain a proactive attitude and a willingness to step in and assist across multiple departments.

Attendance

• Maintain consistent, reliable attendance aligned with early morning starts and livestock care schedules.
• Demonstrate flexibility with working hours, including weekends and holidays as dictated by weather and operational needs.
• Communicate promptly and transparently with supervisors regarding any scheduling conflicts or absences.

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Animal Science, Agribusiness, or a closely related agricultural field.
• Basic understanding of livestock handling practices and beef cattle production.
• Familiarity with or willingness to learn feed management software and heavy equipment operation.
• Ability to work flexible, early morning hours based on livestock needs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, and sitting (driving machinery).
• Ability to work outdoors in diverse and extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, dust, mud).