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Entry Level Plant Breeding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AgSource

Quantitative Geneticist

Madison, WI · On-site

D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a ... Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entry-level employees to executive leadership. * Strong ...

Farm Systems

Quantitative Geneticist

Madison, WI

D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a ... Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entrylevel employees to executive leadership. * Strong ...

Urus

Quantitative Geneticist

Madison, WI

D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a ... Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entrylevel employees to executive leadership. * Strong ...

AgSource

Quantitative Geneticist

Madison, WI · On-site

D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a ... Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entrylevel employees to executive leadership. * Strong ...

Urus Group LP

Quantitative Geneticist

Madison, WI · On-site

D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a ... Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entrylevel employees to executive leadership. * Strong ...

Alta Genetics

Quantitative Geneticist

Madison, WI · On-site

D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a ... Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entrylevel employees to executive leadership. * Strong ...

Alta Genetics

Quantitative Geneticist

Madison, WI · On-site

D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a ... Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entry-level employees to executive leadership. * Strong ...

All JobsEntry Level Plant Breeding Jobs

Entry Level Plant Breeding information

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$13

$22

$39

How much do entry level plant breeding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level plant breeding in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level plant breeding job?

An entry level plant breeding job typically involves assisting senior plant breeders in developing new plant varieties by conducting field trials, collecting and analyzing data, and helping with laboratory tasks. Individuals in this role may also assist with cross-pollination, seed planting, and monitoring plant growth. This position is a great starting point for those interested in agricultural science, genetics, or crop improvement, and provides hands-on experience in both lab and field environments. Entry level plant breeding jobs often require a background in biology, agriculture, or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Plant Breeder, and why are they important?

To excel as an Entry Level Plant Breeder, you need a foundational understanding of genetics, plant biology, and agronomy, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in plant science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as R or SAS), and experience with field trials are commonly required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, successful breeding outcomes, and productive collaboration in research-driven environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plant Breeding vs Entry Level Plant Pathology?

AspectEntry Level Plant BreedingEntry Level Plant Pathology
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Plant Science, Genetics, or related field; some roles may prefer internshipsBachelor's in Plant Science, Microbiology, or related field; lab experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentResearch farms, seed companies, agricultural labsLaboratories, research institutions, agricultural companies
Industry UsageCrop improvement, seed production, biotechnologyDisease diagnosis, plant health research, crop protection

Entry Level Plant Breeding focuses on developing new plant varieties through genetic selection, often working outdoors or in breeding facilities. Entry Level Plant Pathology involves studying plant diseases and developing management strategies, primarily in lab or research settings. Both roles require a background in plant sciences and are essential in agriculture, but they differ in focus and work environment.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for an Entry Level Plant Breeding position?

As an Entry Level Plant Breeder, your daily tasks often involve assisting senior breeders with field trials, collecting and recording plant characteristic data, and preparing plant samples for analysis. You may also participate in planting, pollinating, and harvesting crops, as well as maintaining detailed records in both laboratory and field settings. Collaboration with research teams and agricultural staff is common, and attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential for success in this role.
More about Entry Level Plant Breeding jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Plant Breeding jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Plant Breeding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Breeding jobs? The most popular types of Plant Breeding jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plant Breeding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plant Breeding jobs are:
Entry Level Plant Breeding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plant Breeding job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Quantitative Geneticist

Quantitative Geneticist

AgSource

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Description
The Quantitative Geneticist at URUS is responsible for producing industry-leading bovine genetics through innovative quantitative genetics analysis and technical expertise. This role involves development of innovative approaches to genetic advancement with hands-on data analysis and analytical tasks to support scientific and operational excellence with operational goals to deploy genomic and genetic selection tools within the PEAK breeding program.
Reporting to the Chief Science Officer of Acceligen, who leads the team in the Genetic Advancement and Trait Discovery as part of the Innovation group at URUS. The Quantitative Geneticist will ideally be based in Madison, WI.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Research and Development
  • Support and develop proprietary genetic and phenotypic evaluations and/or indices using appropriate models and software.
  • Utilize genomic data and/or machine learning to enhance prediction models.
  • Collect, organize, and analyze large datasets using programming languages like R, Python, or Fortran
  • Design and refine software pipelines that empower end-users to work independently.
  • Use data-driven analysis to support project decision-making and breeding program optimization
  • Identify opportunities for innovation by actively following scientific developments in genetics, translating them into practical applications for URUS.
  • Ensure accuracy, reliability, and timely delivery of research outputs.

Strategic Communication and Planning
  • Prepare materials for URUS internal and external education channels.
  • Report on project status promptly and professionally.
  • Contribute to long-term research and innovation strategies.
  • Actively participate in team and cross-functional meetings.
  • Attend scientific, technical, and commercial events to support knowledge exchange and visibility.

Technical and Operational Support
  • Provide technical and operational support to URUS breeding programs to improve output and efficiency.
  • Interpret genetic evaluation results and communicate upcoming changes.
  • Monitor and troubleshoot trends in genetic rankings and performance data.
  • Maintain up-to-date professional and technical expertise relevant to genetics and operations.
  • Deploy genetic diversity management tools within the breeding program.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
  • Ph.D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of dairy or beef cattle production preferred.
  • Technical and Scientific Expertise
    • Demonstrated experience with genomic evaluation processes, including data ingestion and integration, genotype imputation, variance component estimation, and breeding value prediction.
    • Strong background in statistical analysis of large and complex datasets.
    • Knowledge of genome-wide association analysis (GWAS).
    • Familiarity with dairy or beef cattle production systems (preferred).
  • Programming and Software Skills
    • Proficiency with genetic evaluation and statistical software such as ASReml, BLUPF90, Fortran, R, Python, and SQL.
    • Experience working in cloud environments, particularly Microsoft Azure and Azure Databricks
    • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Excellent communication skills with fluency in English.
  • Ability to build strong, effective relationships across teams and organizational levels.
  • Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entry-level employees to executive leadership.
  • Strong interpersonal, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
  • Effective time-management skills and the ability to balance multiple priorities.
  • Intellectual curiosity with a commitment to continuous learning and identifying new opportunities.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally.

About Us
As a holding company with cooperative and private ownership, URUS is a family of businesses at the heart of the dairy and beef industry - Alta Genetics, GENEX, Genetics Australia, Leachman Cattle, Jetstream, PEAK, SCCL, Trans Ova Genetics and VAS. Each organization has its unique identity, products, and services. These companies work globally to provide cutting-edge dairy and beef genetics, customized reproductive services to maximize conceptions, dairy management information to take producers to the frontline of progressive dairy farming, and an array of products and services to help bovines reach their full genetic potential. URUS has 9 brands in 17 retail countries and employs nearly 2,800 people globally.

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