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Volunteer Plant Breeding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conagra Brands

Assistant Plant Breeder

Brookston, IN · On-site

$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 ...

LG Seeds

Soybean Breeding Specialist

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:

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 ...

Bayer

Field Associate II

Mason, MI · On-site

Delivering the highest quality field data as part of North America's plant breeding R&D pipeline by ... Engage in community relation activities including but not limited to community volunteer efforts ...

Bayer Inc.

Field Associate II

Mason, MI · On-site

Delivering the highest quality field data as part of North America's plant breeding R&D pipeline by ... Engage in community relation activities including but not limited to community volunteer efforts ...

Bayer

Field Associate II

Mason, MI · On-site

Delivering the highest quality field data as part of North America's plant breeding R&D pipeline by ... Engage in community relation activities including but not limited to community volunteer efforts ...

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 ...

Kelly Services

Greenhouse Associate

Nampa, ID

$14 - $18/hr

... breeding and greenhouse operations. This role involves working with delicate plant materials ... Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision ...

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Volunteer Plant Breeding information

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How much do volunteer plant breeding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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.

How do I become a volunteer plant breeder?

To become a volunteer plant breeder, gain knowledge in plant genetics and breeding through courses or self-study, and develop skills in plant cultivation and data recording. Volunteering with research organizations, botanical gardens, or agricultural projects can provide practical experience and networking opportunities in the field.

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

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.

Are volunteer plant breeders in demand?

Volunteer plant breeders are in limited demand as a formal career, but there is growing interest in community-based and citizen science projects focused on crop improvement and sustainable agriculture. Opportunities often depend on local organizations, research institutions, and environmental initiatives that value skills in plant genetics, breeding techniques, and collaboration. These roles are typically unpaid or part of educational programs rather than full-time employment.

What is a volunteer plant breeder?

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.

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.
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Volunteer Plant Breeding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Plant Breeding job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Assistant Plant Breeder

Conagra Brands, Inc.

Brookston, IN • On-site

$26.97/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Conagra Brands rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 435 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Shift: 7:00 AM-3:30 PM
Hourly 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, 2026
Location: 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

Social media

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