Join us at the Illinois Farm Bureau to become part of an influential leader that has a rich history and vision toward the future of agriculture.

We’re excited you’re looking for a career with Illinois Farm Bureau as we advocate for farmers and agriculture. We’re a grassroots organization made up of people who support farms, food and families in Illinois.. Apply today to become a vital part of helping us advocate for Illinois agriculture and support Illinois farm families.

About the role

The Food Systems Development Internship offers hands-on experience with a leading farm advocacy organization dedicated to strengthening local food systems. Interns will play a key role in promoting and coordinating volunteers, supporting digital communications through newsletters and social media, and assisting with the annual update of the local food directory to connect farmers, businesses, and consumers. Responsibilities also include maintaining and enhancing online resource materials, contributing to event planning and execution, and helping advance outreach strategies that support farmers and local food initiatives. This position provides valuable insight into nonprofit advocacy, communications, and community engagement while making a meaningful impact on the resilience of regional food systems.

The individual in this position will be responsible for working on coordinating materials for the 2026 Illinois State Fair local foods booth including bios/farmer stories, volunteer recruitment, and develop promotional materials. This position is also responsible for coordinating and communicating updates to the Local Food Directory, develop/oversee social media and newsletters, content calendar, and contributes to Everything Local Conference planning, including speaker outreach, assisting with speaker selection, and working with conference organizers. The role will also participate, attend, and assist in coordinating summer fields days as well as other day to day projects in on the team.

How does this role make an impact?

"Test drive" a potential career path through real corporate projects, collaboration in meetings, and several networking opportunities. While working alongside and learning from expert leaders at all levels of the company, in addition to teaming up with fellow interns to showcase your ideas, our interns impact the business, and experience professional and personal growth.

Do you have what we're looking for?

• Preferred field of study: Nutrition, Horticulture, Crop Science, Food Systems
• Excellent writing and organizational skills
• Passion for food systems and/or experience in local food work

Why work with us?

Illinois Farm Bureau planted roots in 1916 and is one of the largest Farm Bureau organizations in the United States. Illinois Farm Bureau is a voice for Illinois farmers, farm families, and anyone involved in food and agriculture. That covers a lot of ground. Illinois Farm Bureau represents members in Springfield, IL and Washington D.C. When you become a part of Illinois Farm Bureau, you become part of something that touches the lives of people every day. You truly make a difference.

You’ll be able to take advantage of our benefits package, which includes insurance benefits (medical, dental, vision, disability, and life), 401(k) with company match, parental leave, paid time off, paid company holidays and time off to volunteer. Please click here to learn more about Illinois Farm Bureau and the many benefits we offer our employees.

Illinois Farm Bureau is committed to providing equal opportunity in all areas of employment, and in providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin, disability, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

Come join our team at Illinois Farm Bureau today!

Illinois Farm Bureau does not generally sponsor individuals for employment-based visas for this position.