We make pet food taste great! For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people.  Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization. Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide. ​

Job Description

Engineering Intern (Summer Internship Program)
Location: St. Charles, O’Fallon, or Aurora, Missouri
Company: AFB International, a member of Ensign-Bickford Industries
Program Length: 12 weeks (Summer 2026)

About Us

At Ensign-Bickford Industries (EBI), innovation and excellence drive everything we do. As a global leader across multiple industries, we’re committed to developing top-tier talent for the future. AFB International, part of the EBI family, is a global leader in palatant manufacturing for the pet food industry, dedicated to enhancing the taste and nutrition of pet foods worldwide.

Through our structured internship program, we invest in the next generation of engineers and innovators by providing real-world experience and professional development opportunities.

Internship Program Overview

Our 12-week summer internship offers more than just a project — it's a launchpad for your career. Interns at AFB are given the opportunity to work on meaningful assignments that make a direct impact on our business. You'll gain hands-on experience with lean manufacturing, process optimization, and continuous improvement methodologies such as Kaizen and process flow mapping.

Position Summary

AFB International is seeking a highly motivated Engineering Intern to join our manufacturing operations team at one of our Missouri locations: St. Charles, O’Fallon, or Aurora. As an intern, you will work closely with experienced professionals to support process improvement efforts and contribute to key engineering and operational excellence projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze production and process data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
• Conduct root cause analyses and support implementation of corrective actions
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on process efficiency and quality improvement initiatives
• Participate in Kaizen events and continuous improvement projects
• Assist in tracking and reporting key performance indicators (KPIs)

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Completion of sophomore year or higher by the internship start date
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with statistical analysis tools is a plus

Program Benefits

• Real-world projects with measurable business outcomes
• Dedicated mentorship and performance feedback
• Lunch & Learn sessions with senior leaders and executives
• Social and networking events with peers and professionals
• Exposure to leadership at all levels of the organization
• Competitive compensation, including a housing allowance

Apply Now

Join us next summer and be part of a team that values innovation, continuous learning, and operational excellence. At AFB International, your ideas matter — and your future starts here.

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.