Feed Operations Intern at Heritage Cooperative

Job DescriptionJob Description Supply Chain & Data Analytics Internship: Feed Mill Optimization We're looking for a sharp student to tackle two critical areas in our Feed Mill operations: slashing warehousing costs and mastering demand forecasting. If you're passionate about Supply Chain, Data Analytics, and Lean principles, this is your chance to directly improve efficiency and profitability in the essential agribusiness sector.This isn't an entry-level chore—it's a core strategic project. You'll use data-driven insights to manage inventory, eliminate waste, and optimize the flow of products from cattle feed to pet nutrition.The Internship Challenge: Predict. Optimize. Deliver.The Feed Mill specializes in producing and distributing a wide range of animal feeds and handling key grains (corn, soybeans, wheat). Your dual focus will be:Warehouse Efficiency: Apply Lean principles (like 5S and time-motion studies) to map our current operations, reduce wasted movement, and implement a smarter storage layout.Demand Forecasting: Build and test models (using historical sales and seasonal trends) to accurately predict product demand for the next 6-12 months, allowing us to optimize inventory levels and avoid waste. Essential Functions: What You'll AchieveProcess Mapping: Conduct site visits and use tools to map the warehouse layout and workflow, identifying where materials handling is inefficient.Time-Motion Studies: Perform detailed observations on key processes (like order picking) to quantify bottlenecks and suggest storage slotting optimizations (e.g., placing high-demand feeds closer to shipping).Data Modeling: Clean historical sales data, analyze seasonal peaks (e.g., winter livestock feed demand), and develop demand forecasting models in Excel.Integration: Link your demand forecasts directly to operational decisions like setting safety stock levels and calculating Economic Order Quantities (EOQ).Quantify Impact: Simulate scenarios to show measurable benefits, such as reducing holding costs by 10-20%.Present: Deliver a final report with a dashboard/tool and strategic recommendations to mill leadership. Qualifications: Are You Ready?Required QualificationsAcademic Standing: Currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Data Analytics, Agricultural Business, or a related field.Data Proficiency: Proficiency with Microsoft Excel or similar data management/spreadsheet software.Core Knowledge: Basic knowledge of lean principles and inventory management techniques.Analytical Skills: Strong analytical thinking with keen attention to detail.Valid License with acceptable MVR Preferred QualificationsMapping Tools: Utilization of warehouse mapping tools (e.g., Lucidchart, flowcharts).Communication: Excellent communication skills.Industry Interest: Interest in the agribusiness or feed manufacturing industry.Physical & Environmental FactorsWork Setting: You'll split time between a professional office environment (data analysis) and the mill floor/warehouse (site visits).Mobility: Must be able to walk and stand for extended periods during site visits and safely navigate the warehouse floor.Safety: Strict adherence to all mill safety protocols is mandatory (e.g., wearing steel-toed boots, high-visibility vests, hearing protection in specified areas).Mill Exposure: Expect exposure to fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and fine dust typical of a feed and grain handling facility.DISCLAIMERThe job description is not intended to cover or describe all tasks, duties and responsibilities the employee may be required to be asked to perform. Heritage Cooperative retains the right to change or add new tasks, duties and responsibilities at any time, with or without notice to the employee. WORK AUTHORIZATIONEvidence of work authorization upon employment is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Completion of USCIS form I-9 will be required in order to verify employment eligibility within 3 business days of the first day of employment.AAP/EEO STATEMENTHeritage Cooperative provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Heritage Cooperative complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.Heritage Cooperative expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Heritage Cooperative’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including termination.Apply now at www.heritagecooperative.com/Careers and help us build a leaner, smarter supply chain!