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Plant Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ProFarm

Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

Davis, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

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 ...

State of Nevada (NV)

AGRICULTURIST I

Carson City, NV · On-site

$52K - $76K/yr

Job Summary The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA), Division of Plant Health and Compliance - Pathology & Seed Program is seeking to fill one vacancy of Agriculturist 1 position. This is a ...

Citizens Health

Plant Operations/plumber

Colby, KS · On-site

Citizens Health is looking for a full-time maintenance worker in our plant operations department. Our Mission:Enhancing the lives of those we serve. About Us:Citizens Health is a community based ...

Millwood, Inc.

PLANT ADMINISTRATOR

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

Summary : Administers and performs the assigned Millwood standard operating procedures in a manner that is within the company's strategic plan guidelines utilizing a positive attitude. For the full ...

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Plant Pathologist information

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$39.5K

$82.6K

$116K

How much do plant pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant pathologist in the United States is $82,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Plant Pathologist, you need a strong background in plant biology, microbiology, and disease diagnostics, typically supported by a degree in plant pathology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, molecular diagnostic tools, and data analysis software such as PCR systems and GIS applications is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in problem-solving and collaborating with agricultural stakeholders. These abilities are vital for accurately identifying plant diseases, developing effective management strategies, and supporting sustainable agricultural production.

What is the difference between Plant Pathologist vs Plant Biologist?

AspectPlant PathologistPlant Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Plant Pathology, Ph.D. often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Botany, Plant Science, or related field; Ph.D. for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, agricultural settings, plant disease diagnosticsResearch labs, academic institutions, field studies, conservation areas
Industry UsageAgriculture, plant disease management, research institutionsResearch, academia, conservation, biotechnology

While both roles focus on plants, a Plant Pathologist specializes in diagnosing and managing plant diseases, often working in agricultural and research settings. A Plant Biologist studies plant functions, growth, and development, with broader research interests. The roles overlap in education and research but differ in their specific focus areas and applications.

What are plant pathologists?

Plant pathologists are scientists who study plant diseases, including their causes, effects, and management. They investigate how pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes affect plant health, and develop methods to prevent and control plant diseases. Plant pathologists work in various settings, including agriculture, research institutions, government agencies, and universities. Their work is essential for ensuring healthy crops, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices.

What Is a Plant Pathologist?

Plant pathologists are scientists who work in agriculture and related fields. As a plant pathologist, you work both in a laboratory setting and out in the field to monitor the conditions that affect plant and crop health. In the laboratory setting, you analyze samples of plants, microorganisms, and other aspects of the natural environment. When there are soil problems or a crop disease, you make onsite visits to determine the cause of the problem and recommend best solutions to treat or eradicate the issue. You must keep up to date with the latest research and innovations in biological and agricultural sciences related to diseases or pathogens that may plague plants. Working closely with biologists, farmers, breeders, and botanists at farms, you create quality control measures and improve practices for maintaining safe environments for the plants and find ways to increase crop yields or develop disease resistance.

What are some common challenges plant pathologists face when diagnosing plant diseases in the field?

Plant pathologists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between similar disease symptoms, environmental stresses, and pest damage, which can all present similar signs in plants. Limited access to advanced diagnostic tools in field settings can make accurate identification more difficult, requiring strong observational skills and sometimes sending samples to a laboratory for further analysis. Additionally, keeping up with emerging diseases and adapting to new pathogens can be demanding, but collaboration with other scientists and ongoing professional development help address these challenges.
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Plant Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Pathologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,578 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

ProFarm

Davis, CA • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 21 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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