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Freelance Genetics Plant Breeding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ohalo

Greenhouse Technician

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Founded in 2019, Ohalo develops novel breeding systems and improved plant varieties that help farmers grow more food with fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic ...

Tamus

Senior Research Associate

College Station, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: -Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis) -Knowledge of plant breeding and genetics principles. -Statistical ...

Syngenta Group

Product Placement Scientist

Aliquippa, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Plant Genetics, or related field, with 3+ years of relevant experience. * Proven expertise in plant variety ...

Syngenta Seeds

Product Placement Scientist

Aliquippa, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Plant Genetics, or related field, with 3+ years of relevant experience. * Proven expertise in plant variety ...

New Mexico State University

Post Doctoral

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Experience with plant pathology, plant breeding, plant genetics, crop production, and statistical analysis. Experience working in field and laboratory settings. Experience with student supervision ...

Syngenta

Product Placement Scientist

Aliquippa, PA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Plant Genetics, or related field, with 3+ years of relevant experience. * Proven expertise in plant variety ...

Ohalo

Greenhouse Technician

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Founded in 2019, Ohalo develops novel breeding systems and improved plant varieties that help farmers grow more food with fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic ...

Ohalo

Greenhouse Technician

Watsonville, CA

$27/hr

Founded in 2019, Ohalo develops novel breeding systems and improved plant varieties that help farmers grow more food with fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic ...

New Mexico state Universoty

Post Doctoral

Las Cruces, NM

$48K - $65K/yr

Experience with plant pathology, plant breeding, plant genetics, crop production, and statistical analysis. Experience working in field and laboratory settings. Experience with student supervision ...

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Freelance Genetics Plant Breeding information

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$47

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How much do freelance genetics plant breeding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance genetics plant breeding in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance genetics plant breeding specialist?

A Freelance Genetics Plant Breeding specialist is an independent professional who applies genetic principles to improve and develop new plant varieties. They work on a contract basis for different clients, such as agricultural companies, research institutions, or farmers, to enhance crop yield, resilience, and quality. Their work often includes designing breeding programs, analyzing genetic data, and implementing innovative breeding techniques. As freelancers, they have the flexibility to manage multiple projects and clients, often working remotely or in diverse field locations.

What are the common challenges faced by freelance genetics plant breeders, and how can they be managed?

Freelance genetics plant breeders often encounter challenges such as securing consistent project work, accessing specialized lab equipment, and keeping up with rapid advancements in genetic technologies. To manage these, many freelancers build strong networks with research institutions and agricultural companies, invest in ongoing education, and utilize shared laboratory spaces or collaborate with academic labs. Additionally, effective project management and clear communication with clients are essential to ensure project goals are met within timelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance genetics plant breeding specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Genetics Plant Breeding specialist, you need a solid background in genetics, plant biology, and breeding techniques, typically supported by a degree in plant science or a related field. Familiarity with genetic analysis software, molecular markers, and laboratory equipment is essential, and certifications in plant breeding or genetics can enhance credibility. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently are crucial soft skills for success. These competencies enable the development of improved plant varieties, efficient project management, and productive collaboration with clients and research partners.
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Freelance Genetics Plant Breeding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Genetics Plant Breeding job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Field Technician - True Potato Seed Production

Ohalo

Watsonville, CA • On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Location: Watsonville, CA
Department: Seed Production / R&D
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role
We are seeking a detail-oriented Field Technician to support True Potato Seed (TPS) production, with a strong focus on hand-pollination, emasculation, berry development, and seed extraction. Unlike vegetative (tuber) seed potato systems, TPS production relies on controlled sexual crosses between parent clones to produce botanical seed from berries. This role requires precision, patience, and comfort with delicate flower-level work in both field and greenhouse/screenhouse settings.
Key Responsibilities
Pollination & Crossing (Primary Focus)
  • Execute seed production planting in appropriate TPS production location across the US planting sites
  • Collect detailed data and maintain production records fully updated and report information as it happens.
  • Follow the pollen collection and seed production SOPs to ensure high quality outcomes.
  • Collect pollen from designated male parent plants at the correct flowering stage, ensuring viability (fresh collection, proper storage/temperature control)
  • Perform hand-pollination by applying pollen to female flowers according to prescribed crossing designs
  • Tag and label each pollinated flower/truss immediately with cross ID, parent line, and date to maintain traceability through berry set and harvest
  • Monitor flowering synchrony between male and female parent plants and flag timing mismatches to breeders/supervisors
  • Track pollination success rates, fruit (berry) set, and flower drop, recording data in field books or digital data collection tools
  • Monitor berry development and maturity (color change, softening) to determine correct harvest timing
  • Hand-harvest mature berries by cross/truss, keeping strict identity preservation and avoiding cross-contamination between crosses
  • Assist with berry processing: crushing/macerating berries, fermenting pulp, and washing to extract true seed
  • Dry, clean, and package extracted TPS seed lots according to protocol, ensuring accurate labeling for storage and germination testing
  • Support seed viability and germination testing procedures as needed

General Field & Greenhouse Support
  • Assist with planting, transplanting, and maintenance of parent clone plots (field, greenhouse, or screenhouse)
  • Conduct regular field/greenhouse inspections to monitor plant health, flowering stage, and pest/disease pressure
  • Rogue off-type or diseased plants to protect the genetic integrity of parent lines
  • Support isolation requirements between crossing blocks to prevent unwanted pollen contamination
  • Maintain irrigation, staking, and general crop upkeep for parent clone plots
  • Operate small field/greenhouse equipment as needed (sprayers, irrigation systems, hand tools)
  • Maintain meticulous, organized records in compliance with company and regulatory traceability standards
  • Help coordinate seasonal labor during peak flowering, pollination, and berry harvest periods
  • Follow all safety protocols, including proper PPE use when handling crop protection products, seed processing and field crop tasks.
Qualifications
Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; a bachelor degree held with agricultural /plant science / seed production background preferred.
  • 3+ years of experience in agriculture, horticulture, plant breeding, seed production, or related fieldwork (internship experience considered)
  • Strong attention to detail and steady hands for fine, flower-level work (emasculation, hand-pollination)
  • Ability to follow precise, protocol-driven procedures and maintain accurate identity-preserved records
  • Comfort working in greenhouse, screenhouse, and/or open field environments
  • Ability to work flexible hours, as flower receptivity and pollen viability are time-sensitive (often early morning)
  • Ability to stand, bend, and work at bench or plant height for extended periods
  • Ability to lift up to 30-50 lbs
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to travel 25% to different TPS production sites, some time up a week or more at times.

Preferred:
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Botany, or related field
  • Prior experience with potato production, TPS/hybrid seed crossing, or other hand-pollinated crop systems
  • Familiarity with breeding nursery protocols, cross/pedigree tracking, or germplasm databases
  • Experience with pollination, seed extraction/fermentation processes and seed cleaning equipment
  • Experience with greenhouse pest/disease scouting and IPM practices
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to perform fine, repetitive hand movements (emasculation, pollen application, tagging) for extended periods
  • Ability to work at bench height and plant height in greenhouse or screenhouse settings, as well as bending/kneeling in open field plots
  • Comfortable working in warm, humid greenhouse conditions as well as variable outdoor weather
  • Ability to walk plot/greenhouse rows repeatedly throughout the day
  • Willingness to work early morning shifts during active flowering/pollination windows

Below is the pay range for this position that we reasonably expect to pay. Individual compensation is based on various factors including experience, education, skillset, and other relevant qualifications. This range is for the Watsonville, CA location and may be adjusted to the labor market in other geographic areas.
Anticipated compensation: $24-$27/hr
About Ohalo:
Ohalo™ aims to accelerate evolution to unlock nature's potential. Founded in 2019, Ohalo develops novel breeding systems and improved plant varieties that help farmers grow more food with fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic diversity of crops to sustainably feed our population. Ohalo's breakthrough technology, Boosted Breeding™, will usher in a new era of improved productivity to radically transform global agriculture. For more information, visit www.ohalo.com.
Notes: If you previously applied for a job at Ohalo Genetics, we encourage you to restate your interest in the position by submitting your application.
No visa sponsorship is available for this position at this time.
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