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Volunteer Plant Breeding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conagra Brands

Assistant Plant Breeder

Brookston, IN

$26.97/hr

Reporting to the Popcorn Breeding leadership team, you will support the development of new popcorn ... Balance: Paid-time off and volunteer opportunities Our Company At Conagra Brands, we have a rich ...

New

Enza Zaden

Breeder

Myakka City, FL · On-site

$77K - $92K/yr

Carry out breeding program activities, including making critical plant and line selections at key ... Paid personal and volunteer time off * Monthly fitness reimbursement * Eligible for discretionary ...

Adecco

Plant Sciences Research Technician

Durham, NC

$21.09/hr

Collaborate with scientists and research staff to support breeding and agricultural research ... voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and 401K plan. Our program provides employees ...

Henkel

SHE Technician

Sabana Grande, PR · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... plant. * Safety & Inspections: Conduct routine safety and environmental inspections, identify ... Financial: 401k matching,employee share plan with voluntary investment and Henkel matching shares ...

LG Seeds

Station Manager

Fort Branch, IN

WHO WE ARE GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture ... Volunteer Time Off * Paid parental leave * Tuition and Health Club reimbursement * Other benefits:

AgReliant Genetics

Station Manager

Fort Branch, IN · On-site

WHO WE ARE GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture ... Volunteer Time Off * Paid parental leave * Tuition and Health Club reimbursement * Other benefits:

All JobsVolunteer Plant Breeding Jobs

Volunteer Plant Breeding information

See salary details

$8

$19

$33

How much do volunteer plant breeding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer plant breeding in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which job is most likely one to employ a plant breeder?

A plant breeder is most likely employed in roles such as agricultural research, seed companies, or plant biotechnology organizations. These jobs involve developing new plant varieties, requiring knowledge of genetics, plant science, and breeding techniques, often using tools like genetic markers and field trials.

How do I become a plant breeder?

To become a plant breeder, typically a bachelor's degree in plant science, genetics, or a related field is required, often followed by advanced training or a master's degree for specialized roles. Gaining experience through internships or research projects and developing skills in plant genetics, breeding techniques, and data analysis are important steps in pursuing a career as a plant breeder.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Plant Breeder, you need a foundational understanding of plant biology, genetics, and basic horticulture, often supported by relevant coursework or hands-on gardening experience. Familiarity with data collection tools, plant identification apps, and record-keeping systems is typically beneficial. Attention to detail, strong observation skills, and effective teamwork set standout volunteers apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital for accurately contributing to breeding programs and ensuring the successful development of improved plant varieties.

What are Volunteer Plant Breeders?

Volunteer plant breeders are individuals who contribute their time and skills to improve plant varieties without receiving monetary compensation. They often work with organizations, universities, or community groups to select, cross, and test plants for desirable traits such as disease resistance, yield, and climate adaptability. Volunteer plant breeders can play a critical role in local food systems and agricultural biodiversity by developing varieties suited to specific regions or needs. Their work helps ensure that communities have access to resilient and nutritious crops.

Will AI replace the plant breeder?

AI can assist plant breeders by analyzing large datasets, predicting plant traits, and optimizing breeding strategies, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Plant breeding requires expertise in genetics, fieldwork, and decision-making that currently cannot be automated entirely. Human oversight remains essential for successful development of new plant varieties.

What is the difference between Volunteer Plant Breeding vs Volunteer Agronomist?

AspectVolunteer Plant BreedingVolunteer Agronomist
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of plant genetics, often no formal degree requiredBackground in agriculture or agronomy, often with a degree or certification
Work EnvironmentResearch farms, seed banks, community gardensFarms, research stations, agricultural consulting settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, research institutions, seed companiesFarming operations, government agencies, research organizations

Volunteer Plant Breeding focuses on developing new plant varieties through genetic selection, often requiring basic plant science knowledge. Volunteer Agronomists provide advice on crop management and soil health, typically needing more formal education. Both roles are vital in agriculture but differ in their focus and required expertise.

What are some typical challenges faced by volunteer plant breeders, and how can they navigate them successfully?

Volunteer plant breeders often encounter challenges such as limited access to resources, managing experimental plots with minimal funding, and balancing breeding activities with other commitments. Collaborating with local gardening clubs, agricultural extension programs, or university-led citizen science projects can help overcome resource constraints. Networking with experienced breeders and seeking mentorship can also provide guidance on troubleshooting crop diseases, maintaining genetic diversity, and documenting results effectively. Staying organized and setting clear goals are key strategies for success in this collaborative and hands-on role.

How much do plant breeders get paid?

Plant breeders' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $70,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals or those working in research institutions can earn over $100,000 annually. Skills in genetics, horticulture, and data analysis are often required for higher-paying roles.
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Volunteer Plant Breeding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Plant Breeding job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Assistant Plant Breeder

Conagra Brands

Brookston, IN

$26.97/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Conagra Brands rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 434 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Shift: 7:00 AM-3:30 PMHourly Rate: $26.97 an hour

Job Title:Assistant Plant Breeder (Popcorn)

Location:Brookston, IN

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Popcorn Breeding leadership team, you will support the development of new popcorn inbreds and hybrids through field, laboratory, and office-based research activities. You will help execute breeding program initiatives, collect and manage research data, maintain seed inventories, and support the successful operation of the popcorn breeding program.

A Taste of Your Responsibilities

  • Support field research activities including field preparation, planting, irrigation, pest monitoring, data collection, harvesting, and seed quality evaluation.
  • Perform nursery pollination activities and assist with breeding program operations.
  • Harvest nursery plots and prepare samples from yield trials for evaluation.
  • Operate laboratory and seed-processing equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Shell, organize, label, and inventory nursery plot materials and seed stocks.
  • Prepare, monitor, and evaluate popping samples generated through research trials.
  • Plan and prepare materials for nurseries and yield trials.
  • Record, organize, and summarize research data accurately.
  • Maintain inventories of breeding program supplies and help forecast future needs.
  • Document work processes and standard operating procedures.
  • Support popcorn evaluation activities and data generation efforts.
  • Use Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to manage data and communicate results.
  • Partner with team members to support breeding objectives and long-term program goals.

Ingredients Required for Your Success

  • Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, or a related field, or completion of degree requirements in progress.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and focus on execution.
  • Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills.
  • Flexibility to work extended hours during peak planting, pollination, and harvest seasons.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds.
  • Familiarity with field operations and plant phenotyping preferred.
  • Experience with statistical analysis and data management software preferred.

Physical Requirements

More information on the essential tasks and facility will be shared during the hiring process. Please be aware that in a manufacturing environment, the noise levels can be high and the temperatures may vary. Depending on the role, physical and environmental requirements can differ but include:

  • Being on your feet, walking around the facility, climbing stairs/ladders or kneeling for extended periods of time.
  • Performing consistent repetitive tasks.
  • Frequently lifting, pushing or carrying materials.
Anticipated Close Date: August 21, 2026Location: Brookston, Indiana

Our Benefits

We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:

  • Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, company-paid life, accident and disability insurance

  • Wealth: Great pay, 401(k)/pension eligibility, financial wellness programs and stock purchase plan

  • Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups and team collaboration

  • Balance: Paid-time off and volunteer opportunities

Our Company

At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions - within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye, Slim Jim and Reddi-Wip.
Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.

Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.

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About Conagra Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Conagra Brands (NYSE: CAG) is an approximately $11 billion company that combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus and entrepreneurial spirit. We're transforming the way we operate to fulfill what consumers and customers want, in a smart, simple way. We're modernizing our iconic food brands, leveraging fresh opportunities and adapting to a changing landscape - all with a culture that's ready to capture growth and drive shareholder value.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1919

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