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Entry Level Agricultural Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Feed Sales Representative The Entry Level Livestock/Lifestyle Product Specialist supports and grows ... Ideal candidates are passionate about agriculture and animal care, and eager to develop technical ...

... with entry-level greenhouse, horticulture, landscaping, gardening, or plant care experience who want to build practical experience in biological research, agriculture, and plant science. The ...

R&D operations employee

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$72K - $78K/yr

... experience for entry-level candidates. * Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the ... Bachelor's degree in agricultural science or related field. * Proven knowledge of field trials ...

Harvest Worker

Seward, NE · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

We are seeking entry-level Harvest Processing Technicians to support a soybean breeding program in ... Agriculture, agronomy, horticulture, biology, crop science, or related experience is preferred but ...

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Entry Level Agricultural Science information

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$32

How much do entry level agricultural science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level agricultural science in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level agricultural science professional?

Entry level agricultural science jobs are positions for individuals who are beginning their careers in the field of agriculture and science. These roles typically involve assisting with research, collecting and analyzing soil, plant, or animal samples, supporting crop management, or working in agricultural labs and production facilities. Most entry level positions require a bachelor's degree in agricultural science or a related field, and they provide opportunities to gain hands-on experience, learn industry practices, and develop technical skills. These jobs can be found in government agencies, private companies, research institutions, and farms.

What types of projects or tasks can an entry level agricultural science professional expect to work on in their first year?

Entry-level agricultural science professionals typically assist with field and laboratory research, data collection, and analysis related to crop production, soil health, or pest management. You may support senior scientists in setting up experiments, monitoring plant growth, or conducting soil and water tests. Collaborating closely with agronomists, technicians, and farm staff, you’ll gain hands-on experience while learning to use industry-standard tools and software. This exposure helps you build foundational skills and opens pathways for specialization and advancement within the agricultural sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level agricultural science professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Agricultural Science professional, you need a background in plant or animal science, soil science, or agronomy, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is often required. Strong observation skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you work well with teams and interpret research findings. These skills and qualifications are essential for contributing to research, optimizing agricultural practices, and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural systems.

How can I start a career in agricultural science?

To start a career in agricultural science, obtain a bachelor's degree in agricultural science, biology, or a related field. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and environmental management can improve job prospects. Certifications in areas like pesticide application or soil science may also be beneficial.

What can I do with an entry level agricultural science degree?

An entry-level agricultural science degree prepares individuals for roles such as farm technician, research assistant, or crop analyst. These positions often involve working outdoors, using tools like GPS and soil testing equipment, and may require basic knowledge of plant biology, pest management, and data collection.

What can I do with entry level agricultural science?

Entry level agricultural science positions typically involve tasks such as crop and soil analysis, farm management, and assisting with research projects. These roles often require knowledge of agricultural tools and practices, and may lead to opportunities in farming, research, agribusiness, or environmental consulting.
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What cities are hiring for Entry Level Agricultural Science jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Agricultural Science job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Agricultural Science jobs?

The most popular types of Agricultural Science jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Agricultural Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Agricultural Science jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Agricultural Science jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Agricultural Science jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Agricultural Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,987 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Entry Level Lab Technician - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

Decatur, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 366 rated logistics


Job description


Entry Level Lab Technician - Decatur, IL
Job Summary
Performs chemical and microbiological analysis, documentation, and data entry in a high-volume process control laboratory while ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, food safety, and quality programs. Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots laboratory instrumentation, including HPLC systems and other analytical equipment, to support production, product quality, and process improvement initiatives.
Essential Job Functions
  • Analyzes process, production, environmental, and finished product samples to determine product quality, process performance, and food safety compliance.
  • Performs analytical testing using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and other laboratory instrumentation in accordance with established methods and procedures.
  • Conducts routine microbiological testing and monitoring to support quality assurance and food safety programs.
  • Documents analytical results and laboratory activities, including food safety, product quality, housekeeping, and hazardous waste generation.
  • Reviews analytical data for completeness, accuracy, trends, and product quality or food safety implications.
  • Communicates laboratory results, quality concerns, and operational issues.
  • Enters analytical and microbiological data.
  • Performs routine calibration, verification, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Prepares samples, standards, reagents, and microbiological media according to established procedures.
  • Assists with laboratory housekeeping, organization, inventory control, and compliance activities.
  • Understands their role in food safety and quality systems, actively participates in food safety efforts, and ensures all activities conform to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), laboratory procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Works effectively across analytical, instrumentation, and microbiology laboratory areas to support plant operations and business objectives.
  • Other task as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Basic math, computer, and problem solving skills.
  • Ability to follow written procedures and accurately document laboratory activities.
  • Ability to work safely around chemicals, laboratory equipment, and manufacturing processes.
Education / Experience
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field preferred.
  • Continuing education, technical certification, or laboratory coursework in a science-related field preferred.
  • Previous laboratory experience in analytical chemistry, microbiology, manufacturing, food processing, or quality control preferred.
  • Experience with HPLC systems, laboratory instrumentation, and microbiological testing methods preferred.
Working Conditions
  • Respiratory Hazards:
    • Dust
  • Hot/Cold Temperature Extremes:
    • Temperature and humidity controlled
    • Indoor
  • Chemicals
    • Hazardous chemicals present
  • Lighting
    • Indoor
Physical Requirements
  • Lifts, carries, and transports up to 50 pounds.
  • Ascends and descends stepladders.
  • Positions self to access samples, supplies, and laboratory instruments.
  • Opens, prepares, analyzes, and disposes of samples in accordance with laboratory procedures.
  • Handles laboratory supplies, instruments, sample containers, transfer vessels, and testing materials safely and efficiently.
Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:112422BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
  • Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
  • Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
  • Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
  • Paid time off including paid holidays.
  • Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay range for this position is expected to be between:

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