The National Pork Board (NPB) Swine Health and Production team is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated summer intern to support the National Swine Health Strategy. Reporting to the Directors of Swine Health, the intern will contribute to efforts to keep foreign and emerging animal diseases out of the U.S. swine herd and reduce the impact of endemic diseases.

The intern will work alongside NPB veterinarians and external industry partners, gaining a deeper understanding of the pork industry’s health and production needs while building connections with producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, and other industry professionals.

Responsibilities

• Support team projects that advance the goals and priorities of the National Swine Health Strategy, including disease prevention and preparedness, traceability, research, and industry collaboration.
• Assist with research review, resource development, producer outreach, and meeting coordination as opportunities arise.
• Participate in industry events, technical working groups, and team meetings to gain experience and contribute to swine health initiatives.

• Currently pursuing a DVM degree with an interest in production animal or swine medicine
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently with guidance from the Directors of Swine Health
• Ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail and quality
• Willingness to learn and adapt to changing priorities
• Willingness and ability to travel approximately 20% of the time, including overnight travel
• Flexibility to accommodate scheduling changes as industry needs evolve

Internship Details

• Duration: 12 weeks
• Preferred timeline: May–August 2027
• Hours: 40 hours per week
• Internships are paid starting at $18/hour (undergraduate) or $20/hr (graduate)
• Location: NPB office in Clive, Iowa
• Housing: Interns arrange their own summer housing; a living stipend is provided.

Application deadline is 11/20/2026.

The National Pork Board has responsibility for Checkoff-funded research, promotion and consumer information projects and for communicating with pork producers and the public. The Pork Checkoff funds national and state programs in advertising, consumer information, retail and foodservice marketing, export market promotion, production improvement, technology, swine health, pork safety and environmental management. Applicants should be able to support the mission of the organization with enthusiasm to serve U.S. pork producers.