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Volunteer Plant Breeding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conservation Coordinator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$22.86 - $28.57/hr

... breeding bird surveys, nest box maintenance, bat surveys, wildlife rescue, and nuisance wildlife ... volunteer engagement related to wildlife surveys, vegetation monitoring, bioassessments, and plant ...

Direct plant operations: conditioning, packaging, inventory management.* Ensure that that all work ... and additional voluntary benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, commuter ...

New

Landscaper (Part-Time)

Nampa, ID · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... with breeding operations for alfalfa germplasm development to include alfalfa crossing and ... Alfalfa crossing is very detail oriented; position involves working with small and fragile plant ...

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:

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:

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Volunteer Plant Breeding information

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$19

$33

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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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.

Conservation Coordinator

Five Rivers MetroParks

Dayton, OH • On-site

$22.86 - $28.57/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Description Plans and conducts habitat management and conservation projects in coordination with park managers, conservation staff, and volunteers. Provides staff training, technical guidance and logistical support for restoration and monitoring projects. Leads various habitat management activities to maintain and encourage a diversified and healthy ecosystem within Five Rivers MetroParks (FRMP) forests, prairies, ponds, rivers, and wetlands, and to manage wildlife within MetroParks.

Duties/Responsibilities Plans habitat management projects and activities, and coordinates staff and equipment needed to accomplish seasonal, routine, and special projects. Plans daily assignments, prioritizes projects, coordinates with supervisors to secure adequate equipment, tools, and staffing to ensure projects can be satisfactorily completed. Organizes and conducts habitat management including prescribed fires, grassland mowing, invasive plant/pest management, management of woody species, tree seedling planting and care, and prairie restoration through harvest, propagation, and reseeding.

Conducts wildlife surveys and management activities throughout the district including deer surveys, breeding bird surveys, nest box maintenance, bat surveys, wildlife rescue, and nuisance wildlife control. Assists with wildlife management research. Responsible for volunteer engagement related to wildlife surveys, vegetation monitoring, bioassessments, and plant propagation.

Completes cover mapping responsibilities and trains staff and volunteers on the techniques and protocols used to determine the composition of the district's natural resources. Maintains and updates GIS system. Creates GIS maps and collects data that illustrate habitats.

Records data to be evaluated and used in making conservation management decisions. Locates and identifies rare and endangered species of plants and animals inhabiting MetroParks properties. Schedules and participates in routine and preventative maintenance on vehicles and equipment.

Maintains records and maintenance logs of assigned equipment and tools. Works closely with other agency staff who occupy the same building. Works assigned schedule, exhibits regular and punctual attendance, and works outside of normal schedule as required.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES Provides service to the public, responding to questions, helping, and providing information. Collaborates across functional areas to provide information and service that contribute to effective operations. Develops and presents education programs about conservation to local, regional, and state audiences.

Performs other duties as assigned. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES None. EQUIPMENT OPERATED Computer, printer, calculator, copier, telephone, standard office equipment.

Trucks, trailers, tractor, ATV, skid steer, mowers, brush cutters, line trimmers, seed cleaner, chipper, and drill, backpack sprayer, chainsaw, GPS, boats, prescribed fire equipment, excavator, loader, and other tools and equipment. Minimum Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. A combination of appropriate education, training, course work and experience may qualify an applicant to demonstrate required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

An example of an acceptable qualification is: Associate degree in biology, ecology, wildlife management, conservation, or a closely related field and over three years conservation and restoration experience. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Valid Drivers' License which meets FRMP insurance carrier guidelines. Ohio Commercial Pesticide Applicators license within two years of employment.

Valid Class A Commercial Driver's license with air brake endorsement or ability to obtain within first year of employment.