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Research Plant Breeder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A. Duda & Sons Inc

Assistant Plant Breeder

Salinas, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Research & Development Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt Join Our Research & Development Team Duda Farm Fresh Foods is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Assistant Plant Breeder to join our ...

BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY

Assistant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $36/hr

... limited plant breeding projects of their own, assigned by a Regional Breeding Director, as part of the overall PanAm R&D strategic goals. * Provide supervision and training to current breeder ...

Ball Horticultural Company

Assistant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $36/hr

... limited plant breeding projects of their own, assigned by a Regional Breeding Director, as part of the overall PanAm R&D strategic goals. * Provide supervision and training to current breeder ...

BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY

Assistant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $36/hr

... limited plant breeding projects of their own, assigned by a Regional Breeding Director, as part of the overall PanAm R&D strategic goals. * Provide supervision and training to current breeder ...

BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY

Assistant Breeder

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $36/hr

... limited plant breeding projects of their own, assigned by a Regional Breeding Director, as part of the overall PanAm R&D strategic goals. * Provide supervision and training to current breeder ...

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Research Plant Breeder information

What is a research plant breeder?

Research plant breeders are scientists who study and develop new varieties of plants with desirable traits, such as improved yield, disease resistance, or climate adaptability. They use genetic principles and advanced technologies to crossbreed plants and analyze the results. Their work helps ensure food security and agricultural sustainability by creating crops that are better suited to changing environments and consumer needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research plant breeder?

To thrive as a Research Plant Breeder, you need a solid background in genetics, plant biology, and statistical analysis, often supported by a degree in plant science or agronomy. Familiarity with molecular marker technologies, statistical software, and laboratory or greenhouse management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for developing improved plant varieties, ensuring rigorous research, and collaborating successfully with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by research plant breeders when developing new crop varieties?

Research plant breeders often encounter challenges such as balancing the need for increased yield with resistance to diseases, pests, and changing climate conditions. They must also navigate lengthy breeding cycles and the unpredictability of genetic traits, which can delay progress. Collaborating closely with other scientists, farm managers, and sometimes commercial partners is essential to ensure new varieties meet both scientific and market requirements. Additionally, staying updated with advancements in biotechnology and regulatory guidelines is crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Research Plant Breeder vs Plant Geneticist?

AspectResearch Plant BreederPlant Geneticist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Plant Science, Agriculture, or related field; often requires experience in plant breedingBachelor's or Master's in Genetics, Plant Science, or related; may require advanced degrees for research roles
Work EnvironmentField trials, laboratory, and greenhouse settings focused on developing new plant varietiesLaboratory and research settings focused on genetic analysis and modification
Employer & Industry UsageAgricultural companies, seed companies, research institutionsResearch institutions, biotech firms, universities

Research Plant Breeders focus on developing new plant varieties through traditional breeding methods, often working in field and greenhouse environments. Plant Geneticists analyze and manipulate plant genes, typically working in labs. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Research Plant Breeder jobs?

For Research Plant Breeder jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Research Plant Breeder job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Plant Breeder

Salinas, CA • On-site

A. Duda & Sons Inc
501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about A. Duda & Sons Incexternal

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Assistant Plant Breeder

Location: Salinas, CA Department: Research & Development Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Join Our Research & Development Team

Duda Farm Fresh Foods is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Assistant Plant Breeder to join our growing Research & Development team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a large, international breeding program focused on vegetable crops including celery, radish, kale, collards, cilantro, and other specialty crops.

Reporting to the Vice President of Research & Development, the Assistant Plant Breeder will play a key role in advancing breeding initiatives, developing improved commercial varieties, and supporting research projects that impact every stage of the production cycle. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including production, harvest, and processing operations, while gaining hands‑on experience in both traditional and modern plant breeding techniques.

What You’ll Do
  • Assist in the planning, coordination, execution, and evaluation of breeding and research trials.
  • Collect, organize, analyze, and interpret breeding and field trial data.
  • Participate in variety development activities, including plant selection, crossing, evaluation, and advancement of breeding lines.
  • Maintain accurate breeding records, databases, and trial documentation.
  • Support seed production, breeding cage operations, isolation trials, and seed harvest activities.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and summaries of research and breeding results.
  • Collaborate with production, harvest, processing, and research teams to evaluate crop performance and quality attributes.
  • Contribute to the implementation of modern breeding technologies and tools, including marker-assisted breeding, genomic selection, and other emerging methodologies.
  • Travel to trial locations and research sites as needed.
What We’re Looking For Education
  • Master’s degree required in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, Horticulture, Biology, or a related field.
  • Ph.D. preferred.
Experience & Skills
  • One or more years of experience in plant breeding, agricultural research, field trials, or related agricultural responsibilities.
  • Strong data collection, analysis, and recordkeeping skills.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office applications; proficiency with Excel preferred.
  • Familiarity with database management systems is a plus.
  • Knowledge of plant breeding principles, experimental design, and statistical analysis.
  • Laboratory and research experience preferred.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Additional Qualifications
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
  • Ability to work in diverse environments, including office, laboratory, greenhouse, warehouse, cold storage, and field settings.
  • Bilingual skills are a plus but not required.
Why Join Duda?

At Duda, innovation and agriculture come together to create sustainable solutions for the future of fresh food. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside industry-leading researchers and contribute to meaningful projects that directly impact the development of improved vegetable varieties for commercial production around the world.

We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a lasting impact within a respected agricultural organization.

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