What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2026 DFA Animal Nutrition Calf Specialist Intern position at Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.?
Summary of the Role
The Calf Specialist Intern will support DFA Animal Nutrition's mission to deliver high-quality calf care and feeding solutions to member farms. This role provides hands-on experience in calf nutrition, health monitoring, and farm management practices while contributing to data analysis, training, and marketing initiatives. Interns will gain exposure to multiple departments and learn how nutrition impacts animal performance and farm profitability.
Key Responsibilities
- Nutrition Program Support
- Assist in developing and implementing calf and heifer feeding programs.
- Help formulate diets and mixing charts tailored to farm needs.
- Evaluate colostrum quality and feeding protocols for newborn calves.
- On-Farm Activities
- Conduct calf observations and troubleshoot health or nutrition issues.
- Monitor growth rates and performance metrics.
- Participate in sanitation and feeding audits to ensure compliance with best practices.
- Data & Reporting
- Collect and analyze calf performance data, including cost per pound of gain.
- Prepare reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations.
- Training & Education
- Assist in delivering training sessions for farm staff on calf care and feeding protocols.
- Develop educational materials to support calf development programs.
- Sales & Marketing Support
- Prepare PowerPoint presentations for internal and external meetings.
- Support trade show booths and industry events.
- Maintain accurate CRM records for contacts and activities.
- Cross-Department Collaboration
- Work with sales, sustainability, and operations teams on calf nutrition projects.
- Rotate between departments to gain exposure to DFA Farm Supplies operations.
Requirements:
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a degree in Animal Science, Dairy Science, Agricultural Business, or related field.
- Strong interest in calf nutrition and dairy farm management.
- Basic understanding of animal health and feeding practices.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Willingness to travel to farms and industry events as needed.
An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans