Summer 2026 Farm Services Intern at OrthoVirginia
United States
<p><span>This internship offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of agriculture and cutting-edge biotechnology. As an intern with Dairy Farmers of America, you’ll be part of a groundbreaking initiative that uses cow breath samples to determine pregnancy — an innovation that has the potential to transform dairy farm reproduction practices and improve efficiency for farmers on a global scale. You’ll gain hands-on experience on real dairy farms, collecting and processing samples, managing data, and maintaining specialized equipment. Most importantly, you’ll be an integral participant in discussions about the technology, and serve as a bridge between product developers and the dairy farmers utilizing this emerging technology. You will leave this internship with valuable experience, professional connections, and a deeper understanding of how science and technology drive progress in agriculture.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span><strong>Location</strong>: this internship will be based remotely and will require frequent travel to dairy farms. The preferred candidate will live in Colorado or the surrounding area/states.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span>MAIN DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES</span></p> <ul> <li><span>Utilizing breath-sensing technology: </span> <ul> <li><span>Plan the collection of a multitude of individual cow breath samples from dairy farms</span></li> <li><span>Collect and process cow breath samples on farms and upload data to the cloud</span></li> <li><span>Collect all pertinent cow data required at collection and again within 2-3 months</span></li> <li><span>Initiate and maintain contact with farmers so any additional data can be requested if needed</span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span>Conduct preparatory work for breath sampling technique, including the management and maintenance of research equipment</span></li> <li><span>Contribute to conversations involving future technology planning and development</span></li> <li><span>Maintain accurate records of sampling and ensure activities are compliant with ethics approvals </span></li> <li><span>Other tasks as directed</span></li> </ul> <strong><span>Qualifications</span></strong> <p><span>Qualifications:<br/><br/></span></p> <ul> <li><span>Currently enrolled in a degree in Veterinary Science, Agriculture, Biotechnology or similar equivalent degree<br/><br/></span></li> </ul> <p><span>Experience and skills:</span></p> <ul> <li><span>Cattle handling experience is essential</span></li> <li><span>Understanding of basic animal behavior and welfare</span></li> <li><span>Understanding of basic animal reproduction and livestock production systems</span></li> <li><span>Demonstrated ability to undertake research and project management work under broad direction only, exercise initiative in undertaking responsibilities</span></li> <li><span>An interest in biotechnology and sensor technology</span></li> <li><span>Demonstrated high level organization, communication, interpersonal skills including experience working with farmers and farm staff</span></li> <li><span>Demonstrated high level oral and written communication skills, including the ability to maintain accurate records and the preparation of reports</span></li> <li><span>Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including the ability to work both collaboratively in a team and autonomously when required</span></li> <li><span>Demonstrated ability to work autonomously with little direct supervision</span></li> </ul> <p>An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans</p>
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