What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Intern - Summer 2026 position at Perdue?
Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
We are actively seeking a hardworking, energetic, self-starter to join our Operations team in Petaluma, CA as an Operations Intern. Perdue's Summer Internship program is designed to combine knowledge learned in the classroom with meaningful, real-world experiences.
Our operations intern will become familiar with the workflow of plant operations and giving you learning and shadowing opportunities across plant teams and departments. The internship will be tailored to the interests of the intern and experience level to maximize the learning experience. The intern will be fully immersed and actively participate in all aspects of business in an operational facility.
What can you expect from a Perdue summer internship?
- Competitive Pay
- Exciting Social, Philanthropic, and Networking Events with other Perdue Interns
- Hands-On, Real World Work Experience and a Dedicated Summer Mentor
- Learning Workshops
- Travel to Perdue Locations Such as our Innovation Center, Perdue Learning University and Live Production Farms
- Interaction with Senior Leadership
- Housing Stipend
This position has a target wage of $25.25 - $32.84 per hour, based on graduation year. Overtime may be available.
Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Assists the Team Leader and the Shift Leader in the daily tasks such as training, providing work direction and development of subordinates to meet operating, safety, and quality requirements within the department / area.
- Assists production staff to ensure product quality and integrity, and ensures all finished products meet or exceeds customer requirements.
- Assists in maintaining an environment that is conducive to retaining associates. Consistently administers company policies and procedures.
- Rotates through various functions in fresh or cook plants during the course of training which may include Live Haul, Wastewater, Accounting, Human Resources, Receiving, Dressing, Evisceration, Giblet Packing, Grading, Cut Up, Stretch Bag, Deboning, 28 Degree Cooler, Box Room, Weight/Price/Label and Shipping departments.
Minimum Education
- Must be enrolled in an accredited four-year institution pursuing a bachelor's degree.
- Degree in Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Engineering, Production Management, Business or Business Administration, Animal Science, Poultry Science, Agriculture, Occupational Safety and Environmental Health
- 3.0 GPA or higher
Qualifications
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work well within a team setting, as well as independently.
- Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to motivate in a team atmosphere.
Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements
- Ability to work for 8 hours or more in a stationary position or travel on a wet, moist, dry, greasy floors which may include metal or plastic grating surfaces with up to 4 hours in a single interval.
- Ability to work from various types of ladders and/or stairs.
- Exposure to and work in temperatures of less than -40 degrees and 75 degrees with ambient humidity.
- Noise exposure of 110 db, and light intensity range of 50 to 100 foot candles.
- Bending, twisting, lifting up to 50 lbs, reaching, sitting, and grasping varies in repetitions, distance, degrees, angle, weight, heights, longest interval of time, objects grasped, and body positions depending upon the maintenance task required. Exposure to chlorinated water (50 ppm, ammonia vapors ) 5 ppm, dry ice, caustic detergents, lubricating oils, hydraulic oils, and other chemicals found in a poultry processing plant.
- Must use and / or wear protective and safety equipment required for the job.
Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Salary : $25 - $33