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Entry Level Plant Pathology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Plant Pathology information

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$39.5K

$82.6K

$116K

How much do entry level plant pathology jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plant pathology in the United States is $82,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Plant Pathologist, you need a foundational knowledge of plant biology, microbiology, and pathology, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in plant science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, microscopy, molecular diagnostics, and data analysis software is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for investigating plant diseases and collaborating with research teams. Mastering these skills ensures accurate disease identification, effective research contributions, and the advancement of agricultural health and productivity.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level plant pathologists in their first year on the job?

Entry-level plant pathologists often encounter challenges such as accurately diagnosing plant diseases, especially when symptoms are subtle or similar across pathogens. Adapting to fieldwork conditions, such as variable weather and travel to research sites, can also be demanding. Additionally, new professionals may need time to become familiar with laboratory protocols and specialized equipment, as well as effectively communicating findings to supervisors and collaborators. Support from experienced team members and ongoing training usually help overcome these initial hurdles.

Are plant pathologists in demand?

Plant pathologists are in steady demand due to the need for disease management in agriculture, horticulture, and forestry. Employment opportunities are often available in research institutions, government agencies, and private industry, especially for those with strong laboratory and field skills. The field offers job stability as plant health remains a critical concern for food security and environmental sustainability.

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

AspectEntry Level Plant PathologyEntry Level Plant Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Plant Science, Biology, or related field; some roles may require internshipsBachelor's in Biology, Botany, or related field; research experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field research sites, agricultural settingsLaboratories, research farms, environmental sites
Employer & Industry UsageAgricultural companies, research institutions, government agenciesResearch institutions, environmental organizations, universities

Entry Level Plant Pathology focuses on studying plant diseases and their management, often in agricultural settings, while Entry Level Plant Biologist has a broader scope, including plant physiology, ecology, and genetics. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but their specific focus areas differ, guiding career paths in plant health versus general plant science research.

What are entry level plant pathology jobs?

Entry level plant pathology jobs are positions for individuals who are beginning their careers in the study of plant diseases. These roles typically involve assisting with laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing plant samples, and supporting research projects that aim to understand and manage plant health problems. Common job titles include research assistant, laboratory technician, or field technician in agricultural, academic, or government settings. These positions often require at least a bachelor’s degree in plant science, biology, or a related field, and offer hands-on experience with disease identification, data collection, and laboratory techniques.
More about Entry Level Plant Pathology jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Plant Pathology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Plant Pathology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Pathology jobs? The most popular types of Plant Pathology jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plant Pathology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plant Pathology jobs are:
Entry Level Plant Pathology jobs near you

Seed Health Laboratory Technician

California Seed & Plant Lab

Pleasant Grove, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Salary: $21.50-$23.50/hour

We are seeking a self-motivated, detail-oriented Laboratory Technician to join our seed health laboratory at CSP Labs (California Seed and Plant Lab, Inc.) at the entry level. The incumbent will be responsible for running dilution plating (culture-based) assays on vegetable seeds to detect bacterial plant pathogens.

Company Profile


CSP Labs is a growth-oriented, full-service plant pathology and genotyping laboratory located in Pleasant Grove, CA. We are known for our rapid, high quality seed and plant testing services, and have a global customer base. The laboratory employs over 50 people in its seed health, plant health, molecular biology, and genotyping laboratories. To learn more, visit csplabs.com, and learn more about working at CSP Labshere. We are conveniently located in the Greater Sacramento area, and are 20 minutes from Downtown Sacramento, 15 minutes from Sacramento International Airport, and 30 minutes from Davis, CA.


Responsibilities


  • Perform dilution plating of seed wash on various semi-selective media
  • Prepare microbiological media and buffers
  • Examine dilution plates and identify suspects for confirmation
  • Conduct confirmatory tests on suspect bacterial colonies including: streak on differential media, biochemical tests, and pathogenicity tests in the greenhouse
  • Sample intake, scheduling, and tracking according to established priorities and workflows
  • Liquid handling with pipettes: single channel micropipettes, repeaters, serological, etc.
  • Assist with data entry and test report preparation
  • Independently follow SOPs (standard operating procedures), verbal and written instructions to complete routine laboratory work, analysis, and research
  • Ensure proper documentation is kept per our SOPs including documenting and communicating test deviations or issues
  • Operate various types of equipment such as micropipettes, grinders, centrifuges, autoclaves, pH meters, stir plates, laminar flow hoods, shakers, incubators, etc.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace
  • Basic lab chores (putting supplies away, autoclave materials, taking out trash & recycling, etc.) and general lab housekeeping (washing general glassware, general cleaning etc.)
  • Keep track of consumables inventory
  • Collaborate with teammates to share spaces/equipment and meet turnaround times
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow relevant safety SOPs
  • Actively participate in the labs quality management system (QMS)
  • Help troubleshoot equipment and assay issues
  • Work for extended periods in the greenhouse
  • Handle pesticides, bleach and chemical reagents
  • Assist with other lab tasks or processes as needed


Requirements


  • Must be willing to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods of time
  • Able to pipette small volumes (100-1000 ul) accurately and repeatedly for extended periods of time
  • Strong attention to detail: labeling, documentation, and sample integrity
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize work based on deadlines/queue
  • Comfortable working in and with digital systems (LIMS, Google Sheets/Excel)
  • Professional communication and reliability in a team environment
  • Proactive listener/learner - asks questions to ensure clarity
  • Can be trained to carry out basic steps of routine protocols with little to no supervision
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time and lift to 40 lbs.
  • Be available M-F, 7:00 AM-3:30 PM
  • Bachelor of Science/Arts in a biology-related field


Equal Opportunity Employer


CSP Labs provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.