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Plant Geneticist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Interior

Geneticist

Lamar, PA · On-site

$89K/yr

Qualifying genetics coursework may include genetics; plant or animal genetics; molecular and cellular biology; mathematics or statistics as applied to genetics; population dynamics; or other courses ...

The Pennsylvania State University

D. or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field (plant sciences, genetics, plant breeding or related disciplines) and provide evidence all requirements have been meet for the completion of the Ph.

Titan America

Plant Supervisor

Longwood, FL · On-site

Responsibilities Plant Supervisor Responsibilities : * Ensure that all products produced meet or ... genetic data, or other legally protected status. Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Titan America

Plant Supervisor

Longwood, FL · On-site

Responsibilities Plant Supervisor Responsibilities : * Ensure that all products produced meet or ... genetic data, or other legally protected status. Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Titan America

Plant Supervisor

Longwood, FL · On-site

Responsibilities Plant Supervisor Responsibilities : * Ensure that all products produced meet or ... genetic data, or other legally protected status. Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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Plant Geneticist information

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How much do plant geneticist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant geneticist in the United States is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a plant geneticist do?

A plant geneticist studies the genetic makeup of plants to understand how traits are inherited and how they can be improved. Their work often involves researching plant DNA, developing new plant varieties with desirable traits such as disease resistance or higher yield, and using biotechnology or traditional breeding techniques. Plant geneticists may work in laboratories, greenhouses, or in the field, and their research helps improve food security, crop sustainability, and agricultural productivity.

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

To thrive as a Plant Geneticist, you need a strong background in genetics, plant biology, and molecular biology, usually supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, genetic analysis software, and molecular marker systems is essential, along with experience using tools like PCR and CRISPR. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and sharing research findings. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation in crop improvement, ensuring food security, and advancing agricultural science.

What are some common challenges faced by plant geneticists in their daily work?

Plant geneticists often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of data from genetic sequencing, troubleshooting issues in experimental crop growth, and adapting to rapidly evolving biotechnology tools. They must also coordinate closely with agronomists, biotechnologists, and field technicians to ensure research objectives are met and results are accurately interpreted. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as projects can change direction based on new scientific discoveries or agricultural needs.

What is the difference between Plant Geneticist vs Plant Breeder?

AspectPlant GeneticistPlant Breeder
Required CredentialsDegree in genetics, plant science, or related field; often advanced degreesDegree in plant science, agriculture, or related; practical breeding experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, biotech companiesField farms, research stations, seed companies
Industry UsageAcademic research, biotech, crop improvement programsCommercial seed production, crop development

While both roles focus on plant improvement, Plant Geneticists primarily conduct research on plant genes and traits, often in labs, whereas Plant Breeders focus on developing new plant varieties through practical breeding techniques in the field. Both roles require a strong background in plant science and often collaborate to enhance crop performance.

How much does a plant geneticist make?

The average salary for a plant geneticist in the United States ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior or specialized roles can earn over $100,000, especially in research or industry settings. Certifications and advanced degrees can also influence earning potential.
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Plant Geneticist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Geneticist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,460 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Plant Geneticist Advisor (Onsite)

National Experienced Workforce Solutions

Poplarville, MS • On-site

$75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Analyze data on blueberry and muscadine germplasms and cultivars to identify promising candidates for advancement in the breeding pipeline.

  • Work with scientists and technicians in the development and release of germplasm and cultivars, including contributing to the release of two muscadine cultivars.

  • Provide training to scientists and technicians on the maintenance and breeding of blueberry and muscadine crops.

Job description

Plant Geneticist Advisor (Onsite)ID:ARS-SEA-061Location:PoplarvilleProgram:ARS
Wage/Hr:$75.00Hours/Week:15Minimum Age:55

For over 25 years, National Experienced Workforce Solutions (NEW Solutions) has specialized in connecting experienced workers (ages 55+) with full-time and part-time job opportunities that support the critical missions of Federal Agencies across the United States.

NEW Solutions connects experienced workers (ages 55+) with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS). These experienced professionals provide administrative, scientific, and technical support to the Agricultural Research Service through the Experienced Worker Program (EWP).

Positions listed here do not guarantee employment for any definite period. Enrollment in the Experienced Worker Programs administered by NEW Solutions is temporary. The enrollment relationship between NEW Solutions and the Enrollee is an ?at-will? relationship. This means that an Enrollee is free to terminate enrollment at any time during the enrollment period, and NEW Solutions and the Agency have the right to terminate the relationship with the Enrollee.

PLEASE NOTE: An ?Enrollee? is not a federal employee, nor an employee of NEW Solutions. An ?Enrollee? is a participant in a grant program established through a Cooperative Agreement funded by the agency and administered by NEW Solutions. The enrollee shall not sign federal documents, authorize the use of federal funds, nor initiate or conduct federally funded research projects. The enrollee shall not author articles for publication as a federal employee, nor coordinate scientific research between the Government and private industry. The enrollee shall not present themselves as a Government employee or Government representative at meetings both foreign and domestic or when coordinating federal agencies? areas of research. The enrollee shall not make decisions on federally based research on behalf of Government policy makers, and the enrollee shall not supervise any Government employees.

This opportunity applies to applicants legally eligible to work in the United States.

*This position will be open until filled.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 20 year(s) of experience in Plant Genetics and Breeding OR PhD Degree in Genetics, Plant Breeding or related field.

  • N/A
  • Experience required with Windows, MS Word, MS Excel
Duties:

Analyze data on blueberry and muscadine germplasms and cultivars and identify cultivars for advancement in the breeding pipeline working with scientists and technicians in the development and release of promising germplasm and cultivars. The enrollee shall not sign federal documents, authorize the use of federal funds, nor initiate or conduct federally funded research projects. The enrollee shall not author articles for publication as a federal employee, nor coordinate scientific research between the Government and private industry. The enrollee shall not present themselves as a Government employee or Government representative at meetings both foreign and domestic or when coordinating federal agencies? areas of research. The enrollee shall not make decisions on federally based research on behalf of Government policy makers, and the enrollee shall not supervise any Government employees.

  • Analyze data on blueberry germplasm and cultivars, identify cultivars for advancement in the breeding pipeline, and work with scientists and technicians in the development and release of promising germplasm and cultivars.   40%
  • Analyze data on muscadine germplasm and cultivars, identify cultivars for advancement in the breeding pipeline, and work with scientists and technicians in the development and release of promising germplasm and cultivars. Contribute to activities associated with the release of two muscadine cultivars.   30%
  • Provide training to scientists and technicians on the maintenance and breeding of blueberry and muscadine crops.   20%
  • Provide guidance to the researchers in the development of a streamlined blueberry and muscadine inventory.   5%
  • Review the progress and questions related to ongoing internal and collaborative programs in blueberry and muscadine crops and advise scientists on the path forward.   5%

Other:
  • Physical requirements: N/A Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

NEW Solutions is committed to promoting equal opportunity and to an environment free from discrimination and harassment in any form administering Experienced Worker Programs under cooperative agreements with federal agencies. It is NEW Solutions' policy to comply with all applicable laws that provide equal opportunity and to prohibit unlawful discrimination in enrolling participants in the federal programs.