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Plant Genetics Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Production Technician

Ogden, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

WHO WE ARE GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture through technological innovation. With a continuous focus on research and development, we bring the ...

Production Technician

Ogden, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

WHO WE ARE GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture through technological innovation. With a continuous focus on research and development, we bring the ...

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Working knowledge of plant genetics, molecular biology, host-pathogen interactions, resistance and mechanisms.Experience with controlled-environment plant care, experimental design, data analysis ...

Seasonal Production - Temporary Part-Time

Marcus, IA ยท On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

WHO WE ARE GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture through technological innovation. With a continuous focus on research and development, we bring the ...

... genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Davenport IA has been a key player in ...

Plant Manager

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$182 - $266/hr

This plant is a leading manufacturer of air-to-air refueling systems, environmental systems, and ... genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. #J-18808 ...

Plant Manager

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$182K - $266K/yr

This plant is a leading manufacturer of air-to-air refueling systems, environmental systems, and ... genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. You do not ...

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Showing results 1-20

Plant Genetics information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$21

$37

How much do plant genetics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant genetics in Iowa is $21.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant genetics?

A Plant Genetics job involves studying the genetic makeup of plants to improve traits such as yield, disease resistance, and adaptability. Professionals in this field use breeding, biotechnology, and genomic research to develop better crop varieties. They work in laboratories, greenhouses, and agricultural settings to analyze and manipulate plant DNA. Careers in plant genetics exist in academia, government agencies, and the private sector, including agricultural and biotech companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in plant genetics?

Excelling in Plant Genetics requires a strong background in biology, genetics, and plant science, usually supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as PCR, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics tools, along with experience in statistical software, is essential. Critical thinking, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively make candidates stand out. These skills are crucial to successfully conduct research, analyze genetic data, and drive innovation in crop improvement or plant breeding programs.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for professionals in plant genetics?

Plant Genetics professionals often start in research or laboratory roles and can move up to positions such as project lead, senior research scientist, or even management in research and development. With experience, some professionals transition to roles in academia, regulatory affairs, or product development for agricultural companies. The field also offers opportunities to specialize in areas like genomic editing, bioinformatics, or crop improvement. Continuing education and networking with professional organizations can further boost your career growth. Many employers encourage cross-functional collaboration, allowing you to broaden your skills and expertise over time.

How much does a plant geneticist make?

A plant geneticist's average salary in the United States ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with advanced skills in molecular biology and bioinformatics can earn higher salaries, especially in research or industry settings.

What do you do as a plant geneticist?

A plant geneticist studies the genes and DNA of plants to understand their traits and improve crop characteristics such as yield, disease resistance, and drought tolerance. They use techniques like DNA sequencing and genetic modification in laboratory and field settings, often requiring knowledge of biology, genetics, and laboratory skills.

What are popular job titles related to Plant Genetics jobs in Iowa?

For Plant Genetics jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Plant Genetics jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Plant Genetics job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Genetics job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,695 per year, or $21 per hour.

Seed Warehouse and Shipping Technician

Confluence Genetics LLC

Altoona, IA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Temporary

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

About Confluence Genetics 
 Confluence Genetics develops soybean technologies and varieties that create value from farm-gate to feed, food and fuel end-markets by unlocking the natural genetic diversity of plants. The Company leverages their proprietary CropOS™ machine learning platform with proprietary germplasm data and speed breeding technologies in our Crop Accelerator facility to drastically accelerate and simplify the product development process. This platform allows for cost-effective and more efficient ways to analyze and make improvements in plant genetics. Confluence Genetics brings a unique and holistic approach to our product and platform development, as we span a broader workflow involving trait and seed development, genome editing, and breeding all the way to creating better ingredients and varieties that tap a strong customer demand. More information can be found online at https://confluence.ag/.

 

Our Purpose and Core Values 

Our Core Values are a set of common principles we share that are fundamental to our company's identity. Real. Inspired!

  • Real. We show up with honesty, accountability, and purpose. We lead with integrity and speak with candor, knowing that trust and transparency drive performance. We challenge each other respectfully and stay grounded in what matters—our shared mission and one another.
  • Inspired! We’re driven by possibility and energized by progress. With open minds and a bold spirit, we embrace change, take smart risks, and push boundaries. We stay curious, creative, and connected to each other, our partners, and the future we’re building together.

 

Department Overview

The Field Operations Team is responsible for conducting a wide range of research activities, namely in the areas of trait discovery and validation, crop genetic engineering, crop transformation, molecular detection, biochemical assays, plant growth, and molecular breeding, to name a few. These activities are aimed at developing new capabilities in crop research, the outcome of which is then leveraged to create new product development opportunities and shorten the time to market. The department leverages its platform capabilities and extensive knowhow in biology and crop science, along with the computational expertise housed within the Data Science & Platform Engineering, as well as the market insights of the Business Development and Commercial teams to design and create new and improved crop varieties, which offer tangible benefits to farmers and consumers, specifically in the areas of sustainability, health and nutrition.

 

Position Summary

The Seasonal Technician will be responsible for assisting our field research operations team. Work will primarily consist of general seed processing, packaging, field data collection, plant harvesting, plant sampling, and riding in combine for seed collection. Supports activities by performing routine tasks under supervision. Follow protocols and safety procedures. 

 

You Will:

  • General seed handling tasks such as seed processing, packaging shipping, receiving, and sorting seed purposes.
  • Collect in field data on field plots
  • Ride in combine to assist in seed collection. 
  • Work with lab equipment
  • Work with plant threshing equipment 
  • Work around large equipment
  • Field maintenance activities. 
  • Sets up, adjusts, and operates equipment and instruments. 
  • Follow protocols to generate accurate operational data. 
  • Maintains clean facilities, equipment, and instruments.

 

 You Have:

(Competencies and Qualifications)

Education

  • HS/ GED 

Experience

No Experience needed Other 

  • Able to work 40 hrs per week; some weekend work will be required during peek weeks 
  • Able to lift a minimum of 40lbs. 
  • Willing to learn and ready to take on challenges.  
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, start-up company environment. 
  • Attention to detail, positive attitude, and works well within a group . 
  • Demonstrates an adaptable, attentive and thorough work ethic.  
  • Excellent planning, organization, and execution skills.
  • Attention to detail 
  • Collaborative 
  • Ability to focus and follow directions 
  • Dependable