Are you interested in a career in poultry nutrition? The industry is rapidly growing, and there’s a high demand for skilled professionals to manage feeding programs for poultry farms. To break into this field, here’s what you should do:
Get Educated and Trained
A degree in poultry science, animal science, nutrition, or a related field is preferred by employers, along with practical experience gained through internships or work experience in a related field. You get a better chance of employment with internships as 70% of students who completed their internships were extended full-time employment by the company they interned for. There are scholarships available including one from the DelMarVa Chicken Association. Information is available at https://www.dcachicken.com/scholarship/.
Network and Connect
Attend industry conferences like the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), join professional organizations like the Poultry Science Association, and engage with poultry professionals on social media. For instance, you can send me a connect on LinkedIn to get closer to my 10,000+ connections which mostly include poultry professionals.
Research Companies in the Poultry Nutrition Industry
Look for companies that align with your values and interests and offer opportunities for growth and development. For reference, the four biggest companies currently controlling 60% of the US poultry market are Perdue, Tyson, Pilgrim’s Pride, and Sanderson Farms.
Develop Relevant Skills
Animal husbandry skills, meticulousness, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and knowledge of regulations and industry standards are some relevant skills needed to succeed in this field. Look for opportunities to gain experience in these areas through coursework, internships, or volunteering.
Apply for Jobs
Check job boards and industry-specific websites and consider contacting recruiters or companies directly. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for, highlighting your relevant experience and skills.
With dedication and hard work, you can break into this exciting and growing field. Pursuing a career in poultry nutrition requires education, networking, relevant skills development, and persistence in the job search process. The industry offers a promising career path for professionals passionate about animal health and nutrition.
To connect with a recruiter in the poultry sciences, contact Trish Valenzuela at trish@continentalsearch.com
Trish Valenzuela
Practice Director, Monogastric Health & Nutrition
Continental Search
Ocean View, DE
www.ContinentalSearch.com
About the Author
Meet Trish Valenzuela, an experienced NAPS Certified Personnel Consultant with Continental Search who has successfully led both the dairy and poultry recruitment teams.
With a focus on recruiting sales and technical professionals in the poultry and swine industries, Trish takes the time to understand the needs of her clients and provide them with the best possible candidates.
Connect with Trish on LinkedIn or email her at trish@continentalsearch.com for the latest job opportunities.
