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Plant Breeding Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KWS SAAT SE

Farming Technician Moorhead

Moorhead, MN · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

... hardware. * Assist with equipment and vehicle maintenance including fabrication and repairs ... It focuses on plant breeding and the production and sale of seeds for sugarbeet, corn, cereals ...

Virginia Tech

Research Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

... plant breeding and virology programs, supporting various research initiatives. The position ... In addition, the candidate will assist in supervision of undergraduate and graduate students ...

PepsiCo

Agricultural Science Technician

Rhinelander, WI

$54K - $82K/yr

This position will work closely with existing assistant breeders to execute breeding operations as ... Qualifications * BS preferred in Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Agronomy, Biological Systems ...

Actalent

Greenhouse Technician

Johnston, IA

$20/hr

Greenhouse Technician The Greenhouse Technician supports plant research and breeding activities by ... * Assist with greenhouse experiments by collecting data, maintaining accurate records, and ...

PepsiCo

Agricultural Science Technician

Rhinelander, WI · On-site

$54K - $82K/yr

This position will work closely with existing assistant breeders to execute breeding operations as ... Utilize barcoding and inventory software to track and store seed, tuber, plant, and seed samples.

PepsiCo

Agricultural Science Technician

Rhinelander, WI

$54K - $82K/yr

This position will work closely with existing assistant breeders to execute breeding operations as ... Utilize barcoding and inventory software to track and store seed, tuber, plant, and seed samples.

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Plant Breeding Assistant information

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$23K

$85.1K

$145K

How much do plant breeding assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant breeding assistant in the United States is $85,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Plant Breeding Assistants?

Plant Breeding Assistants are professionals who support plant breeders in developing new and improved plant varieties. Their responsibilities include preparing and planting seeds, collecting and recording data on plant growth and traits, pollinating flowers, and assisting with experiments in fields or greenhouses. They play a key role in helping plant breeders achieve research goals and improve crop yields, disease resistance, and other desirable characteristics. Plant Breeding Assistants work in agricultural research institutions, seed companies, and universities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plant Breeding Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plant Breeding Assistant, you need a background in plant science or agriculture, familiarity with genetics, and basic laboratory or fieldwork experience. Proficiency in data collection tools, greenhouse management systems, and sometimes statistical software is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, successful collaboration, and support for breeding programs that drive agricultural innovation.

What are some common challenges faced by Plant Breeding Assistants during fieldwork, and how can they be managed?

Plant Breeding Assistants often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, managing large volumes of data, and ensuring accurate pollination and labeling of plants. Adapting to changing field conditions requires flexibility and proactive communication with supervisors and team members. Staying organized with meticulous record-keeping and using digital tools can help manage data efficiently. Additionally, collaborating closely with plant breeders and technicians ensures that tasks are completed accurately and any issues are promptly addressed.
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What cities are hiring for Plant Breeding Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Plant Breeding Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Breeding jobs? The most popular types of Plant Breeding jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Plant Breeding Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Breeding Assistant jobs are:
Plant Breeding Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Breeding Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,100 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Farming Technician Moorhead

KWS SAAT SE

Moorhead, MN • On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Do you have an interest in agriculture? Looking for a great place to work with exceptional benefits? KWS Seeds, LLC is looking for a permanent full-time Farming Technician to join our team at our Moorhead, MN location. The Farming Technician executes work plans for all aspects of trial & equipment maintenance activities including all field work and workshop duties.
Essential job functions:
  • Operate planting, tillage, and harvest equipment including proprietary technology and hardware.
  • Assist with equipment and vehicle maintenance including fabrication and repairs.
  • Operate the required proprietary software for data collection and record keeping.
  • Operate commercial vehicles and forklifts.
  • Mix chemicals for pesticide applications. Organize, direct and apply pesticides to field sites as needed.
  • May utilize spreadsheets to analyze work plans and make recommendations.
  • Train and provide work direction to seasonal workers and coordinate schedules as needed.
  • Ensure work plans are executed according to due dates and deadlines to ensure successful completion of trials.
  • Ensure Company handbook, Rules, Guidelines and Procedures and safety policies are followed and personal protective equipment is used correctly.
  • Travel and/or drive on behalf of the business.
  • Meet attendance requirements.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:
  • One or more years of experience in agriculture or equivalent.
  • Experience working with agricultural pesticide applications.
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
  • Valid Driver's License and acceptable driving history.
  • Valid CDL license or ability to obtain CDL within 6 months of hire.
  • Have or be able to obtain Pesticide Applicator License within 6 months of hire.
  • Ability to work variable hours as needed.
  • Ability to work independently and within a team with flexibility.
  • Strong computer skills with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Preferred qualifications:
  • University Degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Two or more years of experience in specific tasks being conducted by the research stations.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with the various groups and prioritize tasks for the best efficiency.
  • Demonstrated ability to supervise and complete projects working directly with project leads or managers.
  • Ability to work independently and within a team with flexibility.
  • Experience working with regulated plant material.

What we offer:
  • Competitive salary (RA salary range: $21.00 - $26.00/hr based on qualifications).
  • 401(k) employer match; health, dental, vision benefits.
  • Pension plan.
  • Flexible paid-time-off (PTO).
  • Professional training and development opportunities.
  • An international and diverse team.

Working environment: Perform outdoor and indoor work in variable conditions including heat, cold, dust wind and rain. Field environments with exposure to pollen and handling chemicals. Occasional overnight travel as needed, some out of state. Must wear required PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as needed.
Physical demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and move objects up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
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About KWS
KWS is one of the world's leading plant breeding companies and employs around 5,000 employees in more than 70 countries. With the tradition of family ownership, KWS has operated independently for more than 170 years. It focuses on plant breeding and the production and sale of seeds for sugarbeet, corn, cereals, vegetables, oilseed rape and sunflowers. KWS uses leading-edge plant breeding methods and invests a significant amount in research and development.
At KWS, diversity is not just a value; it is an essential part of our success. Breeding resilient crops requires diversity; likewise, our strength comes from the diversity of our teams. Whatever your background or identity is, we invite you to join us.
Further information: https://www.kws.com/corp/en/careers/. Follow us on LinkedIn® at https://linkedin.com/company/kwsgroup/.
Our data privacy policy for candidates is available on www.kws.com/dataprotection. Please select the country where the job you applied for is posted in and, if applicable, the specific business unit.

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