Operations Intern

Organizational Background

Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination, processing, logistics and distribution of high-quality bulk grains, pulses, edible beans, oilseeds, and organics for domestic and worldwide export markets. Our vertically integrated company is headquartered in Portland, OR, and we own and operate over 60 facilities including grain elevators and pulse processing plants across WA, ID, MT, NE, and  ND.

At all levels of our organization, our employees are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable in the industry. We’ve spent over 40 years cultivating lasting partnerships with a wide network of producers and the local communities surrounding our facilities, which enables us to source the highest quality product to “make markets” and fulfill our mission of nourishing the world, safely.

Position Description

The primary objectives for the Operations Intern will be shadowing and working alongside the Elevator Manager, a mentor, elevator employees and regional office personnel to learn all aspects of elevator operations including safety programs and operational procedures. The Operations Intern will work with the other members of the team to work toward operational goals while maintaining quality and efficiencies.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Learn the importance of inventory quantities as well as quality of inventory.
• Learn to grade grain, blend grain, and load outbound trucks and/or trains.
• Learn about changing economics of current market values, rail freight values, truck transportation costs and local competition.
• Understand how to maintain a profitable margin while increasing facility volume.
• Understand elevator logistics and keep operations personnel updated on all inbound and outbound grain quantity and quality specs.
• Observe and assist in executing cash purchase contracts and grower agreements.
• Learn safety policies related to operations work via safety made simple and RCI
• Other duties assigned.

Education/Experience

• Pursuing a four-year degree in Business of an Agriculture-related field.
• Previous experience in an industrial or manufacturing environment a plus.
• Familiarity with writing reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instruction, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, storage, interest, commissions, ratios and conversions quickly and accurately.
• Good work ethic (team environment, both safe and quality), efficient and willingness to perform all required work with good attendance.

Physical Requirements necessary to perform this job

• Must be able to move freely throughout the operations plant to include walking on elevated platforms, standing, sitting, climbing, stooping, kneeling and crawling
• Ability to regularly lift and move up to 10 lbs., frequently lift and move up to 25 lbs. and occasionally lift and move up to 100 lbs.
• Exposure to extreme climate temperatures, humidity and noise
• Must be able to work in high places and confined spaces (height up to 100 feet).
• Occasionally required to taste and smell
• May be required to wear protective equipment to include hard hat, safety glasses, protective footwear, gloves, coveralls, and other PPE as required. 

Successful completion of initial and ongoing employment screens, including but not limited to criminal background and vehicle record as required.

Columbia Grain is an Equal Opportunity Employer