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Crop Breeding Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

CONAGRA

Assistant Plant Breeder

Brookston, IN · On-site

$26.97/hr

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, or a related field, or completion of degree requirements in progress. * Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

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Conagra Brands

Assistant Plant Breeder

Brookston, IN

$26.97/hr

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, or a related field, or completion of degree requirements in progress. * Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Bloomington, IN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ... Skilled at breaking down soil composition analysis, crop rotation planning, and integrated pest ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Indianapolis, IN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ... Skilled at breaking down soil composition analysis, crop rotation planning, and integrated pest ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Fort Wayne, IN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ... Skilled at breaking down soil composition analysis, crop rotation planning, and integrated pest ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Valparaiso, IN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ... Skilled at breaking down soil composition analysis, crop rotation planning, and integrated pest ...

Vylor

Production Electrician

Tipton, IN

$23.75 - $32.75/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... crop science. !!!NOW OFFERING $2,500 SIGN ON BONUS!!! We have an exciting opportunity for a ...

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Vylor

Production Technician

Tipton, IN

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... next in crop science. We have an exciting opportunity for a Production Technician to join our ...

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Vylor

Production Technician

Plymouth, IN

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... next in crop science. We have an exciting opportunity for a Production Technician to join our ...

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Vylor

Production Technician

Rushville, IN

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... crop science. We are currently seeking a Production Technician to join our team at our Rushville ...

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Vylor

Production Technician

Switz City, IN

$17 - $21.25/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer ® , Brevant ® , and ... and shape what's next in crop science. Vylor has an exciting opportunity for a Production ...

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All JobsCrop Breeding JobsCrop Breeding Jobs in Indiana

Crop Breeding information

See Indiana salary details

$23.8K

$66.1K

$94.2K

How much do crop breeding jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for crop breeding in Indiana is $66,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $89,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Crop Breeding vs Plant Geneticist?

AspectCrop BreedingPlant Geneticist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Agriculture, Plant Science, or related fields; experience in breeding programsDegree in Genetics, Plant Biology, or related; often advanced degrees for research roles
Work EnvironmentField trials, breeding stations, laboratoriesLaboratories, research institutions, universities
Industry UsageApplied breeding programs to develop new crop varietiesResearch on genetic mechanisms, gene editing, and trait development

While both roles focus on improving plants, Crop Breeding involves practical development of new crop varieties through crossing and selection, often in field settings. Plant Geneticists conduct research on plant genes and traits, often in labs, to understand and manipulate plant genetics. Both are essential in agriculture but differ in their focus and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by crop breeders, and how can they be addressed in the workplace?

Crop breeders often encounter challenges such as managing long breeding cycles, adapting to changing climate conditions, and integrating new technologies like genomics into traditional methods. Addressing these obstacles typically involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, continuous learning, and staying updated on the latest scientific advancements. Employers often support breeders through training, access to advanced lab facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with researchers in genetics, data science, and agronomy, which helps to streamline processes and improve outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Crop Breeder, you need expertise in plant genetics, agronomy, and data analysis, usually supported by a degree in plant science, genetics, or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as molecular markers, gene editing technologies, and statistical software is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the development of improved crop varieties, driving agricultural productivity and sustainability.

What is crop breeding?

Crop breeding is the science and practice of improving plants to develop new varieties with desirable traits such as higher yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and improved nutritional quality. Plant breeders use techniques like cross-breeding, selection, and modern genetic tools to combine the best traits from different plants. This process helps create crops that are more productive and better suited to specific environmental conditions, benefiting both farmers and consumers.

What job categories do people searching Crop Breeding jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Crop Breeding jobs in Indiana are:

Crop Breeding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crop Breeding job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,054 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Assistant Plant Breeder

Conagra Brands, Inc.

Brookston, IN • On-site

$26.97/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Conagra Brands rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 438 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Shift: 7:00 AM-3:30 PM
Hourly Rate: $26.97 an hour
Job Title: Assistant Plant Breeder (Popcorn)
Location: Brookston, IN
Job Summary:
Reporting to the Popcorn Breeding leadership team, you will support the development of new popcorn inbreds and hybrids through field, laboratory, and office-based research activities. You will help execute breeding program initiatives, collect and manage research data, maintain seed inventories, and support the successful operation of the popcorn breeding program.
A Taste of Your Responsibilities
  • Support field research activities including field preparation, planting, irrigation, pest monitoring, data collection, harvesting, and seed quality evaluation.
  • Perform nursery pollination activities and assist with breeding program operations.
  • Harvest nursery plots and prepare samples from yield trials for evaluation.
  • Operate laboratory and seed-processing equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Shell, organize, label, and inventory nursery plot materials and seed stocks.
  • Prepare, monitor, and evaluate popping samples generated through research trials.
  • Plan and prepare materials for nurseries and yield trials.
  • Record, organize, and summarize research data accurately.
  • Maintain inventories of breeding program supplies and help forecast future needs.
  • Document work processes and standard operating procedures.
  • Support popcorn evaluation activities and data generation efforts.
  • Use Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to manage data and communicate results.
  • Partner with team members to support breeding objectives and long-term program goals.

Ingredients Required for Your Success
  • Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, or a related field, or completion of degree requirements in progress.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and focus on execution.
  • Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills.
  • Flexibility to work extended hours during peak planting, pollination, and harvest seasons.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds.
  • Familiarity with field operations and plant phenotyping preferred.
  • Experience with statistical analysis and data management software preferred.

Physical Requirements
More information on the essential tasks and facility will be shared during the hiring process. Please be aware that in a manufacturing environment, the noise levels can be high and the temperatures may vary. Depending on the role, physical and environmental requirements can differ but include:
  • Being on your feet, walking around the facility, climbing stairs/ladders or kneeling for extended periods of time.
  • Performing consistent repetitive tasks.
  • Frequently lifting, pushing or carrying materials.

Anticipated Close Date: August 21, 2026
Location: Brookston, Indiana
Our Benefits
We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:
  • Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, company-paid life, accident and disability insurance
  • Wealth: Great pay, 401(k)/pension eligibility, financial wellness programs and stock purchase plan
  • Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups and team collaboration
  • Balance: Paid-time off and volunteer opportunities

Our Company
At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions - within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye®, Slim Jim® and Reddi-Wip®.
Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.
Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.

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About Conagra Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Conagra Brands (NYSE: CAG) is an approximately $11 billion company that combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus and entrepreneurial spirit. We're transforming the way we operate to fulfill what consumers and customers want, in a smart, simple way. We're modernizing our iconic food brands, leveraging fresh opportunities and adapting to a changing landscape - all with a culture that's ready to capture growth and drive shareholder value.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1919

Social media

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