Internship Program

Program Overview

The Meat Institute Internship Program offers college and post-graduate students the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience while learning about the meat and poultry industry, its challenges, and its role in providing sustainable food solutions to families around the globe. As the largest trade association representing processors of beef, pork, lamb, veal, and poultry, the Meat Institute is committed to fostering a new generation of leaders with a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s policy, advocacy, and regulatory landscapes.

Interns will work closely with staff members in key departments, contribute to meaningful projects, and engage with stakeholders in the meat and poultry sector. This internship program is designed to cultivate future professionals who are passionate about the food industry, sustainability, public policy, and regulatory affairs.

Program Duration

  • Length: Typically 10–12 weeks, with flexible start and end dates to accommodate academic schedules.
  • Location: Based in the Meat Institute’s headquarters with some remote work options available, depending on the department.
  • Hours: Full-time or part-time (with flexibility for academic commitments).

Internship Areas

1. Advocacy and Legislative Affairs

  • Description: Interns in this area will work alongside the Institute’s advocacy team to support efforts in lobbying, public policy, and legislative affairs. You will assist in tracking bills, writing policy briefs, and attending meetings with lawmakers, regulatory bodies, and industry leaders.
  • Responsibilities:
    • Assist in drafting policy papers and legislative updates.
    • Research and analyze proposed policies affecting the meat and poultry industries.
    • Participate in meetings with government officials and industry stakeholders.
    • Attend advocacy events, hearings, and conferences.
    • Support grassroots efforts to engage the public and industry members in policy issues.

2. Member Experience

  • Description: Interns in the Member Experience department will gain exposure to how the Meat Institute supports its diverse membership. The focus is on customer service, membership growth, event planning, and communication strategies.
  • Responsibilities:
    • Assist with organizing member-focused events such as webinars, conferences, and networking opportunities.
    • Research member needs and industry trends to help develop new resources and services.
    • Support member engagement campaigns, including newsletters, surveys, and outreach efforts.
    • Analyze member feedback to enhance program offerings and improve member satisfaction.

3. Regulatory Services

  • Description: Interns in Regulatory Services will work with the regulatory team to support the Institute’s efforts in ensuring that the meat and poultry industries comply with industry standards, government regulations, and food safety guidelines.
  • Responsibilities:
    • Assist in analyzing and interpreting industry regulations and government policies.
    • Conduct research on federal and state regulations that impact meat and poultry processing.
    • Help develop educational materials on compliance, food safety, and environmental sustainability.
    • Support the coordination of meetings with regulatory agencies and industry representatives
    • Attend regulatory workshops, seminars, and forums.

4. Strategy and Operations

  • Description: Interns in the Strategy department will work closely with the leadership team to support strategic initiatives and operations within the Meat Institute. This role provides insight into the broader operational framework that drives the organization’s work.
  • Responsibilities:
    • Assist in data collection and analysis to inform strategic decisions.
    • Help track industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging issues.
    • Conduct research on global trade, sustainability, and innovation within the meat and poultry sectors.
    • Support the development of strategic reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
    • Participate in strategy meetings and planning sessions.

Please note: interns may be assigned to one area of work primarily, but may also be given exposure to project in other departments depending on the opportunity.

Program Benefits

  • Real-World Experience: Interns will engage in impactful projects that influence the policy, sustainability, and operational aspects of the meat and poultry industry.
  • Mentorship: Each intern is paired with a dedicated mentor from their department who will provide guidance, feedback, and career development advice.
  • Networking Opportunities: Interns will have the chance to meet and network with industry leaders, policymakers, and professionals in the meat and poultry sector.
  • Professional Development: The program includes seminars and workshops on key industry topics such as sustainable meat production, trade policies, regulatory affairs, and career pathways.
  • Compensation: Paid internships (or academic credit, depending on university policies).

Desired Qualifications

  • Academic Requirements: Must be currently enrolled in or a recent graduate of a bachelor’s or post-graduate program in a related field such as Public Policy, Business Administration, Food Science, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Economics, or Political Science.
  • Skills:
    • Strong research and analytical skills.
    • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
    • Interest in the food industry, sustainability, public policy, and regulatory affairs.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with data analysis tools is a plus.
  • Attributes:
    • A passion for contributing to the global food supply chain and sustainable practices.
    • A proactive and detail-oriented attitude with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
    • Strong interpersonal skills, with an ability to collaborate across different teams.

Application Process

  • Application Period: All applications for summer internships must be submitted no later than May 1st.
  • How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following to hr@meatsintitute.org:
    • Resume
    • Cover letter explaining your interest in the internship and how it aligns with your career goals.
    • Academic transcripts (if applicable)
    • Two references (academic or professional)

  • Selection Process: Candidates will be invited for interviews, which may be conducted virtually or in-person, depending on location.

    Conclusion

    The Meat Institute Internship Program is designed to offer participants a comprehensive view of the meat and poultry industries, while fostering a deeper understanding of public policy, sustainability, and industry advocacy. Interns will walk away with invaluable skills, hands-on experience, and professional connections that will support their career development in the food industry.

    This internship program is intended to support the Meat Institute's mission by not only educating the next generation of professionals but also by contributing to the industry's growth and advocacy for sustainable practices.