Summer 2026 Marketing and Communications Internship

Supervisor: Director of Communications

Overview:
Purpose-driven work makes a difference, especially when it supports Minnesota’s more than 3,000 family pig farmers. In this internship, you’ll put your energy and creativity to work alongside the Minnesota Pork team to promote pork and the dedicated farmers who raise it.

Minnesota Pork includes two organizations: the Minnesota Pork Board (MPB) and the Minnesota Pork Producers Association (MPPA). While the two organizations share an office and collaborate closely, each serves a distinct role. MPB is the Checkoff organization that invests producer dollars in promotion, research, and education. MPPA is voluntarily funded and focuses on advocacy, public policy, and issues management on behalf of Minnesota pig farmers.

This internship is built on doing work that matters. You’ll take on projects that make a real impact, gaining hands-on experience in communications, marketing, and event coordination within Minnesota’s pork industry.

Projects may include:

• Creating and publishing content through digital, social, and print platforms to promote pork and share stories of Minnesota pig farmers
• Contributing to the national Taste What Pork Can Do™ campaign and other creative initiatives that highlight pork’s flavor, nutrition, and versatility
• Assisting in planning and executing local and state-level events, including Minnesota Pork Board’s presence at the Minnesota State Fair
• Supporting the development of marketing materials, handouts, and other outreach resources for both farming and consumer audiences
• Participating in staff, farmer, and committee meetings to gain insight into education, promotion, and advocacy efforts
• Building skills in brand communication and stakeholder engagement
• Contributing to additional communications and promotion projects as assigned

The ideal candidate is a strong communicator who enjoys creative storytelling, is organized and self-motivated, and is eager to gain real-world experience in agricultural marketing and communications.

Please Note: Applicants must have availability for the 2026 Minnesota State Fair, August 27 – September 7.

Internship Timing and Location:
Summer 2026: Full-time, May–September (ending after the Minnesota State Fair)
Location: Mankato, Minnesota

Application Deadline:
Submit a resume, two writing or project samples, and two references by Friday, November 7 at 5:00 p.m. CT.

Interview Timeline:
Selected candidates will be contacted by Jordan Zimmerman, Director of Finance and Human Resources. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of November 17.