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Full Time Beekeeping Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Beewise

Field Technician (CA)

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

... beekeeping and agri-tech systems. This is a highly hands-on, field-based role. Success in this ... All full-time, eligible employee receive: * Stock options * 100% paid medical, dental, vision ...

Beewise

Field Technician (FL)

Fort Meade, FL · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

... beekeeping and agri-tech systems. This is a highly hands-on, field-based role. Success in this ... All full-time, eligible employee receive: * Stock options * 100% paid medical, dental, vision ...

All JobsBeekeeping JobsFull Time Beekeeping Jobs

Full Time Beekeeping information

See salary details

$30K

$50.5K

$71.5K

How much do full time beekeeping jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time beekeeping in the United States is $50,508.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $70,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Beekeeping vs Part Time Beekeeping?

AspectFull Time BeekeepingPart Time Beekeeping
Work HoursTypically 40+ hours per weekFewer hours, often evenings or weekends
CertificationsOften requires beekeeping certifications or trainingMay not require formal certifications
Work EnvironmentApiaries, honey processing facilities, farmsSame as full time but on a smaller scale
IncomePrimary income sourceSupplemental or hobby income

Full Time Beekeeping involves working full-time hours, often requiring certifications, and serving as a primary income source. Part Time Beekeeping typically involves fewer hours, may not require formal credentials, and is often pursued as a hobby or supplemental income. The choice depends on your commitment level and career goals in beekeeping.

How much does a full-time beekeeper make?

Full-time beekeepers typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of their operation. Skilled beekeepers with certifications or specialized knowledge may earn higher salaries, especially if managing large apiaries or selling honey and related products directly.

What are full time beekeeping jobs?

Full time beekeeping jobs involve the year-round care and management of honey bee colonies for the production of honey, beeswax, and other bee products. Beekeepers are responsible for tasks such as monitoring hive health, preventing and treating diseases, harvesting honey, and maintaining equipment. Some may also be involved in pollination services for crops or breeding queen bees. Full time beekeeping often requires physical labor, attention to detail, and knowledge of bee biology and local regulations. The work can be seasonal, but dedicated beekeepers manage their operations throughout the year.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Beekeeper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Beekeeper, you need knowledge of bee biology, hive management, and basic agricultural practices, often supported by hands-on experience or training in apiculture. Familiarity with hive tools, protective gear, and record-keeping systems is essential, and certifications in beekeeping or agriculture can be advantageous. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and problem-solving combined with strong observation and communication skills set outstanding beekeepers apart. These skills ensure healthy colonies, maximize honey production, and promote environmental sustainability in a physically demanding and detail-oriented field.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time beekeepers, and how can they be managed?

Full-time beekeepers often encounter challenges such as managing hive health, controlling pests like Varroa mites, and adapting to fluctuations in weather and forage availability. Staying vigilant with regular hive inspections, practicing integrated pest management, and participating in local beekeeping associations can help address these issues. Additionally, keeping up-to-date with industry best practices and maintaining detailed records supports healthy colonies and successful honey production.

Can you make a living from beekeeping?

Full-time beekeepers can make a living through honey sales, hive products, pollination services, and educational activities. Success depends on factors such as scale, market demand, and management skills, with many beekeepers supplementing income through multiple revenue streams.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for bees?

The 3 3 3 rule in beekeeping states that a hive should have at least three frames of brood, three frames of honey, and three frames of pollen to ensure healthy colony development. This guideline helps beekeepers maintain balanced resources for the bees' growth and survival. Proper hive management and regular inspections are essential for applying this rule effectively.

Will the government pay you to keep bees?

Full time beekeeping jobs are typically not directly paid by the government; however, some government programs or grants may provide funding or subsidies for beekeepers involved in conservation, research, or educational projects. Beekeepers can also access support through agricultural or environmental initiatives that promote pollinator health.
What are the most commonly searched types of Beekeeping jobs? The most popular types of Beekeeping jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Beekeeping jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Beekeeping jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Beekeeping jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Beekeeping jobs are:
Full Time Beekeeping jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Beekeeping job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 93% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $50,508 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

APIARY INSPECTOR (Location To Be Determined)

WV Department of Agriculture

Charleston, WV • On-site

$40K - $43K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

West Virginia Department of Agriculture
Position Description
Job Title: Apiary Inspector
Division: Animal Health
Headquarters: To Be Determined
Reports To: State Apiarist Inspector
Supervisor
Responsibility: None
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Nature of Work: Apiary Inspector performs a wide range of activities for the Apiary Program and assists the State Apiarist in the formulation and execution of the division's plans as they pertain to apiary inspection and the promotion of beekeeping, as provided for in the West Virginia Apiary Law. Assists in special event involvements within the division and among specialty producers for the department. Participates regionally and nationally for Apiary Program advancements or arising apiary industry issues. Implements division/department policies and ensures compliance with State and Federal rules and regulations for the protection of West Virginia's apiary industries. Works collaboratively with federal, state, and local agency personnel as well as industry stakeholders. At all times, incumbents must demonstrate, model and reinforce the department's fundamental values of fairness, cooperation, respect, commitment, excellence, honesty and teamwork in all interactions with coworkers and the public. Performs related duties as required.
Examples of Work:
  • Perform apiary inspections and assist training Seasonal Apiary Inspection staff.
  • Examine honey bee hives and colonies for pre-movement certifications.
  • Prepare apiary outreach materials on and conduct training for beekeepers and requesting associations.
  • Assist and promote apiary industries in the marketing and development of apiary-related, agri-business endeavors.
  • Assist the development and implementation of promotional plans and special event materials for apiary-related products and producers.
  • Follow Apiary Program protocols and ensure compliance with current State rules and any arising Federal apiary regulations resulting from invasive honey bee pathogens or pests.
  • Performs outreach with the beekeeping community to educate, build relationships, and ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations.
  • Receive complaints calls from the public related to bees or wasps (e.g. swarms/aggressive hives/abandoned apiaries/etc.).
  • Participate in federal honeybee survey conducted nationally for disease detection and pesticide adulteration.
  • Provide technical direction to beekeepers on the practice of beekeeping and to promote the beekeeping industry at civic group functions and other organized activities.
  • Educate the public on department rules and regulations regarding honey bee colony diseases and apiary colony movements.
  • Provide weekly work plans and activity reports to supervisor; keep supervisor regularly informed of program activities.
  • Serves key role in Apiary Program assisting the State Apiarist in duties related to reporting, grant management, and oversight of the Animal Health Apiary Programs.
  • May serve on occasion as Acting State Apiarist.
  • Other duties as assigned/

Working Conditions:
Frequently bend, squat, stand, sit, drive, climb, kneel, reach above shoulder level, push/pull and/or walk for extended periods of time, and ability to lift/carry 60 pounds.Wear personal protective equipment as required; function in proximity to working machinery and livestock; work outdoors with exposure to all types of weather; exposure to fumes/odors during the inspection and treatment process; exposure to smoke during inspection process; and exposure to various pests and/or stings.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, State of West Virginia and USDA relevant to apiculture.
  • Knowledge of honeybee pests, diseases and recommended control measures.
  • Knowledge of inspection procedures and techniques.
  • Ability to conduct inspections.
  • Ability to train others for performing apiary program duties.
  • Knowledge of generally accepted biosecurity practices.
  • Knowledge of the principles of agriculture and natural resource management.
  • Ability to conduct inspections, identify honeybee pests/diseases, and to recommend treatment and control measures.
  • Ability to keep detailed records using computers, smartphones, and other equipment necessary to perform job duties.
  • Ability to make critical observations, obtain accurate data and prepare reports.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgement.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with beekeepers and the general public.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree with a major in agriculture, animal science, biological science, or related field.
Experience: Three years minimum full-time or equivalent part-time paid employment in a state, federal, or university apiary program.
Substitution: An associate degree in an apiary-related field plus five years' apiary industry experience or a high school diploma or equivalent and seven years' experience working in apiary operations.
Additional Requirements:
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Must not be allergic to hymenopterous stings
  • Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.
  • Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
  • Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture, and the State of West Virginia.

This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner and designees.
West Virginia Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer.

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