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Junior Plant Pathology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ProFarm

Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

Davis, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Supervise interns or junior scientists in data generation and collection * Contribute to research ... Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or a related field Experience: * 3+ years of industry R&D ...

BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY

Plant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA

$83K - $120K/yr

Collaborate closely with Production, Supply Chain, Pathology, Product Management, and other R&D ... Share technical knowledge with colleagues and support the development of junior team members.

BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY

Plant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA

$83K - $120K/yr

Collaborate closely with Production, Supply Chain, Pathology, Product Management, and other R&D ... Share technical knowledge with colleagues and support the development of junior team members.

BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY

Plant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$83K - $120K/yr

Collaborate closely with Production, Supply Chain, Pathology, Product Management, and other R&D ... Share technical knowledge with colleagues and support the development of junior team members.

Ball Horticultural Company

Plant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$120K/yr

... in pathology, molecular breeding, breeding technology, production, and product management. We ... junior team members. • Represent breeding during internal meetings, grower visits, trials, and ...

Nutrien

Horticulture Consultant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

... pathology, entomology, physiology, and abiotic disorder familiarity * Ability to triage plant health issues and recommend appropriate testing * Create and present talks to Trade Groups and Junior ...

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Junior Plant Pathology information

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$7

$26

$47

How much do junior plant pathology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior plant pathology in the United States is $26.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a junior plant pathologist might face when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

As a Junior Plant Pathologist, one common challenge is accurately diagnosing plant diseases in the field, especially when symptoms are subtle or caused by multiple factors. Newcomers may also find it challenging to balance lab work with fieldwork and data analysis. Collaborating closely with senior pathologists and agricultural staff, staying current with research, and actively seeking mentorship can help ease the learning curve. Over time, hands-on experience, coupled with continual training, enables junior pathologists to develop confidence and expertise in disease identification and management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior plant pathologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Plant Pathologist, you need a solid background in plant biology, microbiology, and disease diagnostics, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, molecular diagnostic tools, and data analysis software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate disease identification, effective research, and clear reporting, all of which are critical for protecting crop health and supporting agricultural productivity.

What is a junior plant pathologist?

A Junior Plant Pathologist is an entry-level professional who studies plant diseases and their causes, often working under the supervision of more experienced plant pathologists. They help identify, diagnose, and manage plant diseases in crops, forests, or gardens, contributing to healthy plant growth and food safety. Their tasks may include laboratory analysis, field surveys, data collection, and developing disease management strategies. This role is ideal for individuals with a background in biology, agriculture, or a related field, and it provides valuable experience for advancing in plant science careers.
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Junior Plant Pathology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Plant Pathology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,068 per year, or $27 per hour.

Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

ProFarm

Davis, CA • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

About the Company:
ProFarm is an agricultural technology company on a mission to improve the food we eat in a way that benefits the grower, the consumer, and the entire industry. Headquartered in Davis, California, with a global footprint spanning Michigan to Finland, we deliver field-proven, biological solutions for pest management and plant health. By bridging the gap between sustainability and profitability, ProFarm helps modern growers optimize crop yields while protecting the planet. Learn more and join our mission at ProFarm.com.
Summary:
The Plant Pathologist will provide day-to-day leadership in the design, planning, execution, analysis, and presentation of research on plant-microbe interactions and biological crop inputs, working within interdisciplinary teams of scientists. This role will also help implement novel molecular techniques and contribute to discovery and development efforts for biopesticides and biostimulants. We're looking for someone who takes initiative and brings creative, cutting-edge thinking to research questions.
Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities:
  • Design and execute bioassay experiments to advance understanding of plant-microbe interactions, at both small scale (lab) and large scale (greenhouse and field)
  • Develop, implement, and train others in fungal, oomycete, and bacterial pathosystems for screening new formulations
  • Work with diverse microbial plant pathogens, with a focus on fungal and oomycete pathogens such as Botrytis and Bremia
  • Apply experimental design optimized for downstream molecular work
  • Collaborate and communicate effectively within and across teams, supporting a small R&D group where agility between projects is essential

Good to Have:
  • Experience with DNA and RNA extractions from bacterial, fungal, plant, and insect tissues, including difficult-to-extract sample types
  • Sample analysis via PCR, gel electrophoresis, and qPCR
  • Microbial identification using sequencing or traditional methods
  • General microbiology and molecular biology techniques
  • Use and maintenance of standard molecular biology equipment

Team & Project Contribution:
  • Maintain microbial cultures and keep the lab clean and organized
  • Prepare test materials and assist other departments with bioassays and sample analysis
  • Stay current with relevant literature and contribute novel ideas for future research
  • Document work to a high standard of completeness and accuracy
  • Supervise interns or junior scientists in data generation and collection
  • Contribute to research team discussions, planning, and evaluation of results
  • Participate in regular team and long-term project planning
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Education:
  • Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or a related field

Experience:
  • 3+ years of industry R&D experience with plant disease bioassays, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation of results

Skills & Knowledge:
  • Strong knowledge of plant pathology, microbiology, and molecular biology
  • Proficiency with statistics, including ANOVA and non-linear regression
  • Experience with MS Office and statistical software such as JMP or R
  • Strong communication skills for working with scientists across diverse backgrounds and specializations
  • Ability to work independently and make day-to-day decisions
  • Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities and timelines
  • High attention to detail, with comfort working across interdisciplinary project teams
  • Comfort working in greenhouse and lab settings that may involve soil, dust, and plant material

Working Conditions
  • Primarily lab- and greenhouse-based, with extended periods at a desk and computer
  • Valid driver's license required for occasional travel between work sites (mileage compensated)
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a Qualified Applicator License/Certificate from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation

COMPENSATION:
  • ProFarm offers a comprehensive benefits package including a health plan, medical and dental coverage, life insurance coverage, long term disability and a flexible spending account for dependent care and/or medical expenses.
  • The above is a list of the essential duties and responsibilities for this position. This list is not all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned. This job description may be modified as needed.
  • ProFarm is an equal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required.

The pay range for this role is:
85,000 - 100,000 USD per year (Davis)

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