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Botany Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Louisiana State University

Instructor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

S. degree or equivalent in Wildlife, Fisheries, Ecology, Forestry, Biological Sciences, Botany, or related area; must have knowledge in natural resource ecology, wildlife and fisheries management ...

BREC, LA

Natural Resource Specialist

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$16.82 - $26.91/hr

Natural Resources, Conservation Biology, Forestry, Environmental Science, Wildlife Management, Botany or closely related field Certification(s) Required: First Aid and CPR/AED Certification within 30 ...

All JobsBotany JobsBotany Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Botany information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$30.2K

$49.3K

$86.4K

How much do botany jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for botany in Baton Rouge, LA is $49,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $66,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a botanist do?

Botanists are scientists who study plants, including their structure, properties, and biochemical processes. They may work in a variety of fields such as agriculture, conservation, environmental consulting, or education. Their work often involves researching plant growth, genetics, diseases, and interactions with the environment. Botanists play a crucial role in improving crop yields, conserving endangered plant species, and understanding ecosystems. They may also contribute to developing new medicines, biofuels, and other plant-based products.

What are some common challenges botanists face when conducting fieldwork, and how can these be managed?

Botanists often encounter challenges during fieldwork such as adverse weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the need to access remote or protected areas. Additionally, accurate identification and collection of plant specimens can be complicated by seasonal variations or environmental changes. To manage these challenges, botanists typically plan field trips carefully, ensure they have appropriate permits, use specialized equipment, and collaborate closely with local experts or conservation authorities. Flexibility and adaptability are key skills for overcoming unexpected obstacles in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a botanist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Botanist, you need a solid background in plant biology, ecology, and research methodologies, usually supported by a degree in botany or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, GIS software, and statistical analysis tools is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills make someone stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for conducting accurate research, publishing findings, and contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Botany vs Plant Science?

AspectBotanyPlant Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Botany, Biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Plant Science, Biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, botanical gardens, fieldworkResearch labs, agricultural settings, universities, fieldwork
Industry UsageAcademic research, conservation, educationAgriculture, horticulture, biotechnology, research
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding botanical careers, research rolesApplying plant knowledge in practical settings

Botany focuses on the scientific study of plants, including their structure, classification, and ecology. Plant Science covers a broader range of applied and research-based work related to plants, often emphasizing agricultural and technological applications. While both fields share similar credentials and work environments, Botany is more research and taxonomy-oriented, whereas Plant Science leans toward practical applications in agriculture and industry.

Are botanists in high demand?

Botanists are in moderate demand, primarily in research institutions, environmental agencies, and agriculture. Employment opportunities depend on funding, environmental policies, and scientific advancements, with a need for specialized skills in plant identification, ecology, and laboratory techniques.

Do botanists make good money?

Botanists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and employment sector, with median annual wages around $50,000 to $70,000. Those working in research, academia, or government agencies tend to earn higher salaries, especially with advanced degrees and specialized skills. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced botanists or those in managerial roles can earn significantly more.

What jobs can you do in botany?

Botany offers various career opportunities including plant biologist, horticulturist, conservation scientist, plant pathologist, and botanical researcher. These roles often require knowledge of plant taxonomy, ecology, and laboratory or fieldwork skills, and may involve working in research institutions, botanical gardens, or environmental organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Botany jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Botany jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Botany jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Botany jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Botany jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Botany job openings:

Botany jobs near you
Infographic showing various Botany job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,250 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Plant Protection Technician

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Baton Rouge, LA

$40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 295 rated public sector bodies

Job description

Plant Protection Technicians implement domestic programs within assigned geographic areas to prevent the establishment and artificial spread of plant pests and diseases into new areas. If selected, you provide support to Plant Protection and Quarantine Officers with surveys; control measures; biocontrol and biotechnology activities; and export of regulated agricultural commodities within Plant Protection and Quarantine Field Operations.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
FOR THE GS-05 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-04 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
  • Identifying economically significant target pests.
  • Collecting insect and disease samples suspected to be plant pests for identification by subject experts.
  • Using and maintaining survey equipment, including electronic field data equipment such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), Global Positioning System, computer tablets, cellular phones, and digital cameras.
  • Assisting in inspecting routine agricultural products for import/export.
  • Reading x-ray images and/or operating x-ray equipment to identify and confiscate prohibited materials.
OR
Successful completion of 4 years of study that included at least 16 semester hours in courses such as biology, plant pathology, entomology, zoology, botany, forestry, chemistry, agriculture, or physics.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
  • You are qualifying for the position based on education.
  • You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education.
  • This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-05 GRADE LEVEL: Applicants may have combinations of successfully completed education and specialized experience to meet total qualification requirements. The total percentages must equal at least 100 percent to qualify for that grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education:This position does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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