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Plant Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Smithers-Oasis

Plant Scientist - Kent, OH

Kent, OH · On-site

The Plant Scientist will have global responsibilities and will perform work related to aspects of propagation production and postharvest quality of floriculture and hydroponic food crops grown under ...

Plantible Foods

Agronomist - Plant Biology

Eldorado, TX · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

S. in Plant Science, Biochemistry, Chemistry, another relevant Science/Engineering background with 2+ years of industrial research experience or M.S. in assay development with 1+ year industrial ...

Astrion

Plant Science - Intern

Merritt Island, FL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Overview Intern, Plant Science LOCATION: Cape Canaveral, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: BI investigation CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: Limited; as needed Must be US citizen Position Summary Astrion ...

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$57K

$81.3K

$106.5K

How much do plant scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant scientist in the United States is $81,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers are there in plant science?

Careers in plant science include roles such as plant biologist, agronomist, horticulturist, plant geneticist, and crop scientist. These positions often involve research, fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and may require knowledge of plant physiology, genetics, and environmental conditions.

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

To thrive as a Plant Scientist, you need a robust background in botany, plant physiology, and genetics, typically supported by a degree in plant sciences or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and sometimes certifications in pesticide application or laboratory safety are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and conveying findings. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving innovation in agriculture, ensuring accurate research, and advancing sustainable plant-based solutions.

What is the highest paying job in plant science?

The highest paying roles in plant science are often senior research scientists, plant biotechnologists, or plant geneticists, especially those working in private industry or for large agricultural corporations. These positions typically require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and experience, and can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually.

What do plant scientists do?

Plant scientists research plant biology, genetics, and ecology to understand plant growth, development, and responses to environmental factors. They often work in laboratories or field settings, using tools like microscopes and genetic analysis techniques to develop new plant varieties or improve crop yields.

Do plant scientists make money?

Plant scientists typically earn salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location, with median annual wages often ranging from $50,000 to $80,000. Advanced roles or positions in research institutions and industry can offer higher compensation, especially for those with specialized skills or advanced degrees. Salary data is influenced by factors such as employer type and geographic region.

What is the difference between Plant Scientist vs Agronomist?

AspectPlant ScientistAgronomist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Plant Science, Botany, or related fields; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Agronomy, Agriculture, or related fields; may include certifications in crop management
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, agricultural research centersFarms, consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions
Industry UsageAcademic research, biotech companies, government researchFarming operations, crop production, consulting

Plant Scientists focus on research and development related to plant biology, genetics, and improvement, often working in labs or academic settings. Agronomists apply scientific principles to crop production and soil management in the field. While both roles require knowledge of plant biology, Plant Scientists are more research-oriented, whereas Agronomists focus on practical application in agriculture.

What are plant scientists?

Plant scientists are experts who study the biology, growth, genetics, and management of plants for purposes such as agriculture, conservation, forestry, and environmental sustainability. They conduct research to improve crop yields, develop disease-resistant plant varieties, and understand plant interactions with their environment. Plant scientists often work in laboratories, greenhouses, or out in the field, and their findings help address global challenges like food security and climate change.

What Is a Plant Scientist?

A plant scientist studies different species of plants for a wide range of applications. As a plant scientist, your duties may involve analyzing the molecular or genetic structure of plants, developing new breeds of flowers or crops, and modifying crops to fight against diseases and pests that might affect the economic output of a farm. You may also help determine appropriate land use policies and assist with recovery efforts after a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, drought, or flood.

What are some common challenges faced by plant scientists in research and fieldwork settings?

Plant scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, pests, and diseases that can affect experimental outcomes during fieldwork. In research settings, securing funding and access to advanced laboratory equipment can also pose difficulties. Additionally, collaborating across multidisciplinary teams and effectively communicating complex scientific findings to stakeholders are essential yet sometimes challenging aspects of the role. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills help plant scientists overcome these hurdles and contribute valuable insights to agriculture, conservation, and biotechnology.
More about Plant Scientist jobs
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Plant Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,295 per year, or $39.1 per hour.
Plant Scientist - Kent, OH

Plant Scientist - Kent, OH

Smithers-Oasis

Kent, OH • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Who We Are:
Smithers-Oasis is a diverse global manufacturer and marketer of floral foam and design media, floral accessories, postharvest products, cellular growing media, temperature control packaging, medical impression foam, and custom foams for specialized applications. Our business divisions include OASIS Floral Products, Floralife Postharvest Products, Design Master, OASIS Grower Solutions, Temprecision International, Medical Impression Foam, and Engineered Products.
Our business divisions and operating units all have the same goal - to provide solutions-based products and services - and our network of facilities around the world enables Smithers-Oasis to provide these at the local level, yet with a global perspective. For floral markets, that means products that reflect local cultural preferences and traditions. From horticultural and postharvest perspectives, we work with suppliers throughout the global supply chain to maximize crop production and protect products from harvest to the point of sale. For our specialty foam divisions, we drive innovation, accept accountability, and are positioned to partner with operations worldwide.
At Smithers-Oasis, we are committed to quality and innovation. We are proud to collaborate with our communities to create longstanding, supportive partnerships and customer satisfaction.
What We Need:
We are seeking a self-motivated and scientifically curious individual to fill the role of Plant Scientist within our Corporate Research department in Kent, OH! The Plant Scientist will have global responsibilities and will perform work related to aspects of propagation production and postharvest quality of floriculture and hydroponic food crops grown under controlled environmental conditions. This position will have a focus on specialty substrates for propagation, soilless cultivation, and hydroponic production. There will be a special emphasis on developing sustainable and biobased solutions to improve growth and quality of controlled environmental agricultural crops. The Plant Scientist will conduct plant science experiments, report results, and apply the knowledge to develop new products and new processes in a timely manner. This position will collaborate closely with other plant and polymer scientists, marketing, manufacturing, quality, and sourcing to successfully develop and launch new products in timely manner.
The successful candidate is someone who has experience and interest in applied research to help us develop products and solutions for our customers. Our research facility greenhouse is set up to mimic the conditions of our grower customers' facilities. We are looking for someone who has the drive and innovation to execute our shared vision.
Some specific responsibilities of this position include (but are not limited to):
  • Conduct scientific greenhouse and lab research and report findings in the format of research reports, technical reports, and presentations to deliver project deliverables such as new products, new processes, and product improvements in a timely manner.
  • Drive innovation in the field of floriculture and controlled environment agriculture by interaction with academics, industry experts, and customers to understand new technologies, new research methods, and industry trends.
  • Collaborate closely with colleagues in other research departments, marketing, manufacturing, quality, and sourcing to successfully develop new products.
  • Provide technical support to technical sales team and customers.
  • Coordinate with sales team and customers to conduct field trials as a part of new product and new application development.
  • Mentor and supervise Research Technicians.

Who We Are Looking For:
  • An individual with a Master's degree in a plant science or horticulture emphasizing greenhouse production, controlled environment agriculture production, plant pathology or plant microbiology is required. An individual with a PhD in these areas is preferred.
  • An individual with a strong working knowledge and interest in propagation, nutrition, and production in soilless media and/or hydroponic production of food and floriculture crops is preferred. (Industry work experience is preferred but not required.)
  • An individual with demonstrated ability to design and conduct specific research to answer questions and solve problems to develop and commercialize products for propagation and production in soilless media and/or hydroponic production.
  • An individual with strong verbal and written communication skills to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
  • A self-motived and passionate individual who has a positive attitude and is able to work in fast moving environment.
  • An individual who is able to travel at times, both domestically and internationally.

Please note that only candidates who have greenhouse experience will be considered.
What We Offer:
  • Our company culture places a high value on integrity and trust, respect, collaboration, and a proper work/life balance.
  • An opportunity to add value to the organization and build strong professional relationships.
  • A full-time career with a competitive salary and benefit plan options, generous paid-time off and an immediately vested company-matched 401k plan.

The salary range for this position is between $72,000-$92,000 per year.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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