Entry Level Animal Science Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The Entry Level Livestock/Lifestyle Product Specialist supports and grows the livestock and lifestyle product portfolio, drives product demand, builds dealer/co-op relationships, and delivers exceptional customer service. Ideal candidates are passionate about agriculture and animal care, and eager to develop technical expertise and market knowledge. 

Location: This is a remote field-based sales position that must be located within the geographic territory of Dodge, Nebraska. Willingness to travel within this territory to gain insights into the region and understand prospects.  

Species focus: Calling on cow calf, feedlot and equine animal owners (primary focus being cow calf) to evaluate existing feeding programs, and to recommend and assist them with their nutritional programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct up to 25 farm or facility visits weekly to assess feeding programs and recommend Purina-backed solutions. 
• Network across the livestock and lifestyle animal industries to share best practices and create new business opportunities. 
• Support sales and market share by introducing innovative feed products and programs to new and existing clients. 
• Manage and grow an existing book of business from day one, with access to established customer relationships and immediate sales opportunities.  
• Build and maintain strong relationships with dealer/co-op teams and Purina experts to support partner goals. 
• Develop expertise in Purina’s research, innovation, and sustainability to deliver value in every customer interaction. 
• Organize and lead educational events and on-site demonstrations to increase brand awareness, dealer traffic, and customer loyalty. 
• Operate autonomously in a flexible, remote work environment, managing territory, schedule, and customer relationships with supported direction from supervisor. 
• Coordinate and execute product strategy, marketing initiatives, product launches, and field events with cross-functional teams. 
• Participate in team meetings and sales training, implement sales strategies, and collaborate with peers for continuous improvement. 
• Use CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and technology tools (e.g., Power BI) to record activities and inform business decisions. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science or related field strongly desired. 
• Candidates with a pending bachelor’s degree or candidates who possess proven sales and industry experience may be considered. 
• 0-3 years of experience. 
• Strong interest in livestock care and agricultural products. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and in teams. 
• Customer service or sales support experience. 
• 5-10% overnight travel plus daily travel in assigned geography.  

Competencies & Other Skills  

•  Demonstrate agility, integrity, and professionalism while adapting to changing market conditions and navigating a matrix-reporting structure. 
• Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication, strong organization, and effective time management. 
• Show high internal drive, relationship-building ability, and leadership in team environments.
• Make multiple daily sales calls to customers and prospects. 
• Engage in on-farm interactions, including animal evaluations, in all weather conditions. 
• Network within the industry to connect producers and build business relationships.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds. 
• Deliver effective public speaking presentations.   

Compensation

• This is a sales role that is compensated with a target mix of base salary plus commission.
• Base salary is dependent upon experience/tenure and generally ranges between: $53,000 - $65,000
• Target bonus is: Ten Thousand
• In most cases, candidates offered employment can expect to be hired at a pay rate near the middle of our salary ranges.