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Plant Pathology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LSU AgCenter

LSUAG PL1 - Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology (Lawrence E Datnoff (00013100)) Work Location:A0414 Life Sciences Annex Pay Grade:Academic Work Location: LSU Campus, Baton Rouge ...

Louisiana State University

LSUAG PL1 - Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology (Lawrence E Datnoff (00013100)) Work Location:A0414 Life Sciences Annex Pay Grade:Academic Work Location: LSU Campus, Baton Rouge ...

SavATree LLC

Plant Health Care Specialist

Apopka, FL · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

You bring: • A degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Management, Turfgrass--or related experience (preferred) • ...

SavATree LLC

Plant Health Care Specialist

Apopka, FL

$20 - $26/hr

You bring: • A degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Management, Turfgrass--or related experience (preferred) • ...

NCSU

Temporary Undergrad Lab/Field Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Agronomy, etc.). Is Time Limited No If Yes, Appointment Length Wolfpack Perks and ...

NCSU

Research Assistant

Raleigh, NC

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Entomology and Plant Pathology About the Department As part of the Land Grant University, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the College of ...

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All JobsPlant Pathology Jobs

Plant Pathology information

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$39.5K

$82.6K

$116K

How much do plant pathology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant pathology 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 is the highest paying job in plant science?

In plant science, senior research scientists, plant breeders, and plant biotechnologists tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures with advanced degrees and specialized skills. Leadership roles such as plant science directors or consultants in agricultural biotechnology also offer high compensation, especially in private industry or corporate settings.

What is plant pathology?

Plant pathology is the scientific study of plant diseases, including their causes, effects, and methods for control and prevention. Plant pathologists investigate how pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes infect plants and how environmental factors can influence disease development. Their work is essential for ensuring healthy crops, improving food security, and minimizing economic losses due to plant diseases. This field combines biology, chemistry, genetics, and agriculture to understand and manage plant health.

What is the difference between Plant Pathology vs Plant Biology?

AspectPlant PathologyPlant Biology
FocusStudy of plant diseases, pathogens, and disease managementStudy of plant structure, function, genetics, and development
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in plant pathology or related fieldRequires a degree in plant biology, botany, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, agricultural settings, universitiesResearch labs, botanical gardens, universities, fieldwork
Industry UsageAgriculture, plant disease management, researchResearch, conservation, education, biotechnology

Plant Pathology focuses on understanding and managing plant diseases, while Plant Biology covers the broader aspects of plant structure and function. Both fields share similar credentials and work environments but differ in their specific research and application areas.

How much do plant pathologists make in the US?

Plant pathologists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced professionals and those in government or research roles earning higher. Salaries can vary based on education, experience, location, and employer, and many plant pathologists hold advanced degrees and certifications that influence compensation.

What Is Plant Pathology?

Plant pathology is a scientific field that studies disease and how it relates to plants, agriculture, and botany as a whole. This includes issues like how changes in an environment affect the spread of disease, how an organism changes to adapt to infections, and how to breed or grow healthy crops in areas ravaged by a pathogen. Plant pathologists often work with agronomists (experts in soil management and crop production) to monitor research sites, gather information, and search for solutions. Plant pathology covers problems caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, protozoa, and parasitic plants, and occasionally branches out into other fields. For example, a plant pathologist may study how diseases can be transmitted from animals to plants.

What can you do with a plant pathology degree?

A plant pathology degree prepares individuals for careers in research, crop protection, and disease management in agriculture, horticulture, and environmental sectors. Graduates can work as plant pathologists, research scientists, extension specialists, or in roles involving diagnostics, pest management, and sustainable farming practices, often utilizing laboratory and field skills.

What are some common challenges faced by plant pathologists in a research or agricultural setting?

Plant pathologists often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving plant diseases, limited resources for large-scale field studies, and the need to communicate complex findings to growers or policymakers. They must stay current with new disease management strategies and adapt research methods to changing environmental conditions. Collaboration with agronomists, farmers, and regulatory agencies is essential for implementing practical solutions and ensuring that research translates into real-world impact.

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

To thrive as a Plant Pathologist, you need a solid background in plant biology, microbiology, and pathology, typically supported by a relevant degree such as plant science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, diagnostic tools, and data analysis software is essential for conducting research and identifying plant diseases. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills are vital for interpreting findings and collaborating with farmers, researchers, and stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate disease diagnosis, effective management strategies, and advancements in plant health for sustainable agriculture.

What type of pathologist gets paid the most?

Among plant pathologists, those specializing in research, consulting, or working in industry tend to earn higher salaries than those in academic or government roles. Advanced degrees, certifications, and experience in disease management or crop protection can also increase earning potential.
More about Plant Pathology jobs
What cities are hiring for Plant Pathology jobs? Cities with the most Plant Pathology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Pathology jobs? The most popular types of Plant Pathology jobs are:
What states have the most Plant Pathology jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Pathology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plant Pathology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Pathology jobs are:
Plant Pathology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Pathology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,578 per year, or $39.7 per hour.
Student Assistant 2 -Plant Path

Student Assistant 2 -Plant Path

The Ohio State University

Wooster, OH • On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Screen reader users may encounter difficulty with this site. For assistance with applying, please contact hr-accessibleapplication@osu.edu. If you have questions while submitting an application, please review these frequently asked questions.
Current Employees and Students:
If you are currently employed or enrolled as a student at The Ohio State University, please log in to Workday to use the internal application process.
Welcome to The Ohio State University's career site. We invite you to apply to positions of interest. In order to ensure your application is complete, you must complete the following:
  • Ensure you have all necessary documents available when starting the application process. You can review the additional job description section on postings for documents that may be required.
  • Prior to submitting your application, please review and update (if necessary) the information in your candidate profile as it will transfer to your application.

Job Title:
Student Assistant 2 -Plant Path
Department:
FAES | Plant Pathology-JM
The Department of Plant Pathology is hiring 4 Undergraduate Student Assistant 2 to assist with seasonal field research in the fruit pathology program. Duties will consist of preparing crops and collecting samples for research.
Responsibilities will be moderate and less routine and will require responsibility and good judgement. May coordinate activities for other student employees. Requires providing excellent customer service, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work in a professional environment. Requires previous experience and knowledge or skill in student assistant role. Represent the department and the university with the highest degree of integrity applying OSU mission and shared values.
Additional Information:
Location:
Selby Hall (0410)
Position Type:
Temporary (Fixed Term)
Scheduled Hours:
28
Shift:
Varying Shifts
Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.
Thank you for your interest in positions at The Ohio State University and Wexner Medical Center. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by visiting the Candidate Home section of this site. Please view your submitted applications by logging in and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions please review the frequently asked questions.
The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.
As required by Ohio Revised Code section 3345.0216, Ohio State will: educate students by means of free, open and rigorous intellectual inquiry to seek the truth; equip students with the opportunity to develop intellectual skills to reach their own, informed conclusions; not require, favor, disfavor or prohibit speech or lawful assembly; create a community dedicated to an ethic of civil and free inquiry, which respects the autonomy of each member, supports individual capacities for growth and tolerates differences in opinion; treat all faculty, staff and students as individuals, hold them to equal standards and provide equality of opportunity with regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

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