About the role#
This internship provides hands-on experience in the spray drone profession. You will work from our Mankato location during the summer of 2027. The role focuses on aerial application of crop nutrients and protection products while maintaining equipment and serving our customers.
What you'll do#
- Perform custom application of crop nutrients and protection products using spray drones.
- Handle the mixing, loading, and application of these products.
- Plan field missions and manage flight scheduling.
- Complete pre-flight inspections, daily logs, and application reports.
- Operate and maintain application equipment and facility grounds.
- Provide maps and reports to customers while maintaining professional service.
- Attend training sessions and professional development opportunities.
- Follow all safety protocols for yourself and your team.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a Precision Ag, Ag Systems Technology, or related degree program.
- Ability to obtain an FAA Drone Remote Pilot Certification.
- A valid driver license and a Class A CDL with tanker endorsement.
- FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate.
- Minnesota Commercial Pesticide License (A, B, C) and the ability to maintain it.
- Willingness to work long hours, including weekends and holidays.
- Background in agriculture or ag retail.
- Basic equipment operation skills.
- Ability to meet driver qualification standards.
Location & details#
- Location: Mankato, Minnesota.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: This is a paid internship.
About Crystal Valley
Crystal Valley is a farm supply and grain marketing cooperative. It serves crop farmers and livestock producers across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. The company operates in the agronomy, energy, feed, and grain sectors. Founded in 1927, it is based in Mankato, Minnesota. The organization maintains a workforce of 157 employees.
How to get in at Crystal Valley
Applying to Crystal Valley early gives you a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, so you can apply among the first before the pile grows. This helps you avoid the common frustration of submitting your resume to a crowded queue. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind Crystal Valley roles. Reaching out directly to ask about the position or a referral materially improves your response rates compared to a cold submission.
