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Corn Breeding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for ... This internship role will actively learn all aspects of field production for seed corn, as well as ...

Parent Seed Intern

Slater, IA · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for ... This internship role will actively learn all aspects of field production for seed corn, as well as ...

Parent Seed Intern

Slater, IA · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for ... This internship role will actively learn all aspects of field production for seed corn, as well as ...

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer, Brevant, and Hoegemeyer ... Research experience with economically important fungal diseases of corn and/or soybean, especially ...

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... corn for foliar disease to drive real return-on-investment on their fields. Primary ...

We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for ... agronomic corn and soybean yield trials. * Work with other groups, such as Research Trialing ...

We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for ... agronomic corn and soybean yield trials. * Work with other groups, such as Research Trialing ...

We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for ... agronomic corn and soybean yield trials. * Work with other groups, such as Research Trialing ...

We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for ... agronomic corn and soybean yield trials. * Work with other groups, such as Research Trialing ...

Production Technician

Algona, IA

$16 - $20/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... Exposure to dust and plant allergens including but not limited to corn, sunflower, cotton, and ...

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... Exposure to dust and plant allergens including but not limited to corn, sunflower, cotton, and ...

Production Technician

Renwick, IA

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... Exposure to dust and plant allergens including but not limited to corn, sunflower, cotton, and ...

Production Technician

Reinbeck, IA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... Exposure to dust and plant allergens including but not limited to corn, sunflower, cotton, and ...

Production Technician

Toledo, IA

$14.50 - $18/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... Exposure to dust and plant allergens including but not limited to corn, sunflower, cotton, and ...

Production Technician

Toledo, IA

$14.50 - $18/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... Exposure to dust and plant allergens including but not limited to corn, sunflower, cotton, and ...

Production Technician

Dysart, IA

$16 - $20/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... Exposure to dust and plant allergens including but not limited to corn, sunflower, cotton, and ...

Corn Breeding information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$21

$34

How much do corn breeding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for corn breeding in Iowa is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a corn breeder?

A Corn Breeding job involves developing improved corn varieties with desirable traits such as higher yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to different environments. Professionals in this field use traditional breeding techniques and modern biotechnology to crossbreed plants, evaluate their performance, and select the best candidates for further development. They work in research institutions, agricultural companies, or seed production firms to ensure crops meet market and environmental demands. This role requires knowledge of genetics, plant science, and data analysis to optimize breeding strategies.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a corn breeder?

As a Corn Breeder, your day-to-day work often includes planning and managing field trials, selecting and cross-breeding parent plants, gathering and analyzing data on crop performance, and collaborating with agronomists and research technicians. You will spend time both in the lab and in the field, evaluating plant traits and recording observations. Additionally, you may work closely with seed production teams and participate in meetings to discuss progress and set breeding goals. This role requires balancing detailed scientific work with hands-on agricultural tasks, making each day a dynamic experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a corn breeder?

To thrive in Corn Breeding, a strong background in plant genetics, agronomy, and crop science is essential, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Experience with field trial design, statistical software (such as SAS or R), and knowledge of molecular breeding techniques are highly valuable. Excellent analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help in managing projects and coordinating with research teams and agricultural partners. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing high-yield, resilient corn varieties and ensuring successful breeding program outcomes.

Do plant breeders make good money?

Plant breeders, including those specializing in crops like corn, can earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions often start around $40,000 to $60,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning over $80,000 or more, especially in research or managerial roles. Skills in genetics, data analysis, and fieldwork are important in this field.

How do I become a corn breeder?

To become a corn breeder, typically a bachelor's degree in plant science, agronomy, genetics, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research roles. Experience with plant breeding techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with tools like genetic markers and field trials are important for success in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Corn Breeding jobs in Iowa?

For Corn Breeding jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Corn Breeding jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Corn Breeding jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Corn Breeding job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,984 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Corn Senior Crop Trait Development Lead

Vylor, Inc.

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the advancement of insect control (IC) traits through late discovery pipeline stages.

  • Oversee the assembly and evaluation of trait components into prototypes, including IC, HT, DR, and Yield traits, through pre-commercial pipeline stages.

  • Manage cross-functional project teams to develop scientific plans, evaluate product prototypes, and de-risk late discovery projects.


Job description

Join Vylor—Powering the Future of AgricultureAt Vylor, we’re advancing agriculture through breakthrough science—combining elite germplasm, cutting-edge biotech, and next-generation expertise in gene editing and molecular breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer, Brevant, and Hoegemeyer, delivering performance farmers rely on.Join us to help scale innovation globally and shape what’s next in crop science.Corteva Agriscience is seeking an experienced Corn Senior Crop Trait Development Lead to join our dynamic team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing insect control (IC) traits through late discovery pipeline stages. This role will also be responsible for leading the assembly and evaluation of trait components into prototypes (including IC, HT, DR, Yield components) through pre-commercial pipeline stages and will contribute to the overall strategy and success of our crop development initiatives.Connect Trait Biology to Product Design, Performance, and Strategy:Deliver on product strategy by balancing trait design configurations, optimal product performance, assembly cost, and timelines.Participate in and provide recommendations for research, product concepts, and business strategy to senior crop leadership.Develop and implement IP strategies that ensure freedom to operate (FTO) and maximize market opportunities for Corteva and licensee customers.Project Leadership:Lead cross functional project teams to direct the development stage technical evaluations and pre-commercial de-risking of product prototypes that bring together IC, HT, DR, and Yield trait components in elite germplasm.Lead cross-functional late discovery project teams to advance IC traits, including the development of scientific plans in alignment with functional leaders.Provide regular updates on project status, risks, and opportunities to stakeholders across R & D and Commercial / Business organizations.Develop and implement creative solutions to challenges that allow project advancements on aggressive timelines.Communication and Documentation:Prepare, contribute, and present both scientific and commercial-focused presentations to diverse audiences, including regulatory, scientific, senior leadership audiences, and customers.Author and contribute to both scientific and commercial product-focused publications in support of product development and launches.Implementation of plans:Provide meeting agendas with clearly defined deliverables and decision/recommendation pointsLead joint resource demand planning, including seeds, herbicides, and methods.Design experiments and develop compelling data sets to support pipeline advancements and out-licensing of industry-leading traits.Conduct crop and trait ratings in both controlled and field environments at global locations.Develop and participate in field plot tours.What Skills You Need:PhD in Entomology, Breeding, Agronomy, Weed/Crop Science, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a minimum of 10 years of experience, or MS with 15 plus years of experience.Successful track record of aligning and leading cross functional project and/or program teams with the ability to inform and influence across R&D and business stakeholders.Industry or public sector experience in commercial seed biotech trait development specifically in Insect Control discovery and development with Herbicide Tolerance, Disease Management, and Agronomic traits familiarity desired.Proven track record of scientific publications and/or patents demonstrating a strong understanding of plant biotechnology and breeding with an emphasis in insect control desirable.Strong familiarity with the trait development process preceding the commercial development.Relevant experience interacting with farmer customers in a commercial context is ideal.#LI-BB1Benefits – How We’ll Support You:Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skillsBe part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better placeHealth benefits for you and your family on your first day of employmentFour weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidaysExcellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and fatherFuture planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement programLearn more about our total rewards package here - Corteva BenefitsCheck out life at Vylor! https://www.linkedin.com/company/vylorgenetics/Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.Corteva announced to separate our current advanced seed and genetics business to establish a standalone company, operating as Vylor, Inc. The process of the planned separation is anticipated to be completed the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to legal requirements and board approval. Should you accept this position, it is anticipated that, following conclusion of the separation, you would be an employee of Vylor, Inc. and your employment would be governed by Vylor, Inc. employment processes, programs, policies, and benefit plans. In that case, details of any planned changes would be provided to you by Vylor, Inc. at an appropriate time and subject to any necessary consultation processes.Vylor is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr