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Forage Breeding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State Fair Assistant, NS

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$16.48 - $33.52/hr

The Fair showcases statewide competitions in livestock, horse breeding and showing, and the finest New York has to offer in wine, produce, honey, maple syrup, flowers, forage, and grain. It also ...

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Forage Breeding information

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$27K

$61.5K

$80K

How much do forage breeding jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for forage breeding in the United States is $61,528.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $70,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is forage breeding?

Forage breeding is the science of developing new and improved varieties of forage plants, such as grasses and legumes, that are used as feed for livestock. The goal of forage breeding is to increase yield, nutritional quality, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability of these plants. Forage breeders use techniques like cross-breeding, genetic selection, and sometimes biotechnology to create plants that meet the needs of farmers and the livestock industry. This work helps ensure more productive and sustainable animal agriculture.

What is the difference between Forage Breeding vs Forage Agronomist?

AspectForage BreedingForage Agronomist
Primary FocusDeveloping new forage plant varieties with improved traitsOptimizing forage crop production and management practices
Required CredentialsBotany, plant genetics, crop science degreesAgronomy, crop science, soil science degrees
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, breeding fields, seed companiesFarms, research stations, consulting firms
Industry UsageSeed companies, agricultural research institutionsFarming operations, agricultural extension services

While both roles focus on forage crops, Forage Breeding centers on developing improved plant varieties through research and genetics, whereas Forage Agronomists focus on applying best practices to maximize forage crop yield and quality in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by forage breeders in developing new plant varieties?

Forage breeders often encounter challenges such as adapting plant varieties to diverse environmental conditions, improving traits like disease resistance and drought tolerance, and meeting the specific nutritional needs of livestock. Balancing genetic diversity while achieving desired agronomic traits can be complex, and field trials require patience and attention to detail. Collaboration with agronomists, farmers, and other researchers is crucial to ensure new varieties are both scientifically robust and practically valuable in real-world agricultural settings.

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

To thrive as a Forage Breeder, you need a strong background in plant science, genetics, and agronomy, often supported by a degree in plant breeding or a related field. Familiarity with molecular breeding techniques, data analysis software, and field trial management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for collaborating with research teams and stakeholders. These abilities ensure the successful development of forage varieties that improve animal nutrition, crop yields, and sustainable agricultural systems.
Infographic showing various Forage Breeding job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 83% Physical, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,528 per year, or $29.6 per hour.
Assistant Professor - Equine Science

Assistant Professor - Equine Science

NCSU

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Information
Posting Number PG194652EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Assistant Professor - Equine Science Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Animal Science About the Department
The Department of Animal Science is leading the transformation of agriculture, biomedical research, and animal management worldwide. Our mission is to ignite passion and expertise in Animal Sciences through pioneering research, education, and outreach. Animal Science is the largest academic program in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and provides instruction to over 900 undergraduate students and 70 graduate students.
The Department is a leader in extension and engagement programs to farmers, allied industry and the public, and conducts internationally recognized research into nutrition, genetics, reproduction, health and management of domesticated animals. The position will benefit from the Reedy Creek Equine Farm which is a unique collaboration between College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) allowing for outstanding learning opportunities for undergraduate students, graduate students, veterinary students and the community all in one place.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Department of Animal Science seeks candidates for a 12-month tenure-track position focused on equine management, combining teaching responsibilities with extension programs that support adult education and the equine industry. North Carolina is a top-ten horse state (currently ranking 8th in the US), requiring strong support to the horse industry through teaching and extension. Preference will be given to candidates with proposed or established extension programs in equine science, practical industry experience, and experience teaching hands-on equine management classes.

Responsibilities
  • Teach three core animal science classes each year: ANS 410 Breeding Horse Management and ANS 411 Management of Growing and Performance (vital for students interested in equine management and preparing future equine veterinarians), plus develop and teach one additional course (e.g., Grazing Management, Equine Evaluation, Equine Behavior and Learning, or in one's discipline area of interest)
  • Establish a sustainable, locally, regionally, and nationally recognized extension program supporting the Horse Husbandry Extension group, primarily in areas of adult education
  • Serve as an advocate for the Animal Science Department's interests at Reedy Creek Equine Farm
  • Collaborate with faculty in the department, the CVM, and the Department of Crop and Soil Science (forage program)

Position will be 70% academic and 30% extension.
Other Responsibilities
  • Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities. 

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Ph.D. degree in animal science or relevant field by the start date
  • Practical experience within and knowledge of the equine industry.
  • Commitment to teaching and mentoring students.
Other Required Qualifications
  • N/A
Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to collaborate effectively within a collegial, team-oriented environment.
  • Experience in teaching hands-on equine management classes.
  • Proposed or established extension programs in equine science.
  • Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Potential to develop extramurally funded programs.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 05/21/2026 Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants
Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

Review of applications will begin 30 days after the job open date, but the position will remain open until it is filled.
Position Details
Position Number 00112056 Position Type Tenured/Tenure-Track Faculty Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.0 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Department ID 110701 - Animal Science EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887