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Weed Science Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Weed Science information

See Alabama salary details

$22.2K

$43.9K

$71.6K

How much do weed science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for weed science in Alabama is $43,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,900.00 and $47,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is weed science?

Weed science is the study of weeds and their management in agricultural, horticultural, and natural environments. It focuses on understanding how weeds grow, spread, and interact with crops and ecosystems, as well as developing methods to control or prevent their impact. Weed scientists use a combination of biology, chemistry, and ecology to devise effective weed management strategies, including the use of herbicides, cultural practices, and integrated approaches. The goal is to minimize the negative effects of weeds on crop yields, biodiversity, and land use.

What is the difference between Weed Science vs Agronomist?

AspectWeed ScienceAgronomist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in weed science, agronomy, or related field; certifications like Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) are commonBachelor's or master's in agronomy, crop science, or related field; certifications like CCA are also common
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, agricultural fields, extension servicesResearch facilities, farms, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageFocuses on weed identification, control methods, herbicide developmentBroader crop management, soil health, crop production strategies

While both Weed Science and Agronomists work in agriculture and share similar credentials, Weed Science specialists focus specifically on weed identification, control, and herbicide research. Agronomists have a broader role in crop management and soil health. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within agriculture.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in weed science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in weed science often encounter challenges such as herbicide resistance, evolving weed species, and managing invasive plants in diverse environments. Staying updated with the latest research and adopting integrated weed management strategies can help address these issues. Collaboration with agronomists, farmers, and regulatory agencies is also essential for developing effective, sustainable solutions. Regular fieldwork, data analysis, and attending industry conferences are important for staying ahead in this dynamic field.

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

To thrive as a Weed Scientist, you need a strong background in plant biology, agronomy, and weed ecology, usually supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and laboratory equipment is often required, along with certifications such as a pesticide applicator license. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with farmers, researchers, and regulatory agencies. These competencies are essential for developing sustainable weed management strategies and ensuring effective agricultural productivity.
What are popular job titles related to Weed Science jobs in Alabama? For Weed Science jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Weed Science job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,861 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Assistant / Associate Professor of Agronomy

Assistant / Associate Professor of Agronomy

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University

Normal, AL • On-site

$71K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Salary: $71,650.00 - $84,063.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300707
Department: Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences
Opening Date: 11/10/2025
Description
Summary:
The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) in the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences (CALNS) at Alabama A&M University is seeking faculty member in the field of Agronomy. The Assistant Professor of Agronomy position is a nine-month tenure track appointment with 50% Teaching and 50% Research, with an additional three-month summer research employment. Initial research funding will be available. The rank and tenure-status of the position is negotiable based on qualifications.
The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) includes undergraduate programs in Environmental Science, and Forestry. Graduate programs include Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Plant and Soil Science.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Primary focus will be teaching undergraduate and graduate level courses in traditional and online formats in Crop Science. Lawn and Turfgrass Management, Plant/Crop Physiology, Plant Ecology, Weed Science, Seed Biology and Seed Production Technology. Additional courses may be developed, depending on the candidate's interests and expertise.
  • Actively engage in student recruitment and retention programs and be willing to travel to local high schools and recruitment events
  • The individual is expected to conduct crop production research in the greenhouse, high tunnel and open field.
  • Advise and assist graduate students in their thesis/dissertation research.
  • Develop relations, communicate and interact with agricultural community and work closely with small-farm development center
  • The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills with undergraduate and graduate students; serve on department, college and university committees, as well as advise undergraduate clubs.
  • Ability to integrate basic and applied research in agronomy, field, vegetable, and specialty crops, sustainable organic, agroforestry, and climate-smart agriculture, and emerging agricultural technologies.
  • Other duties assigned.

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • Earned doctorate in agronomy or closely related discipline is required by the start of contract.
  • Evidence of post-doctoral research of at least two years.
  • The candidate must have demonstrated ability and enthusiasm to teach and conduct research related to their area of expertise.
  • Evidence of scholarly productivity and creativity, such as refereed publications, presentations in professional societies, etc.
  • Candidate is expected to meet the physical requirements of conducting field research and must possess knowledge of conventional southeastern crop production relevant to Alabama
  • Evidence of actual or potential success in teaching, research, and service is also expected.
  • Interest and ability to develop collaborative partnerships - within and across university disciplines, at national, international, and within private sectors.
  • Ability and willingness to effectively advise and mentor students from a variety of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels.

Supplemental Information
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Evidence of ability to secure extramural funding from public and/or private sources.
  • Evidence of teaching effectiveness in the areas of agronomy/crop production,
  • Evidence of interest and ability to form collaborative partnerships - within andacross university disciplines, across national/international institutions, and within private industry.
  • Evidence of ability and willingness to effectively advise and mentor students from a variety of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have evidence of post-doctoral research of at least two years?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have an earned doctorate in agronomy or closely related discipline?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have demonstrated ability and enthusiasm to teach and conduct research related to their area of expertise?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have evidence of scholarly productivity and creativity, such as refereed publications, presentations in professional societies, etc.?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you able to meet the physical requirements of conducting field research and must possess knowledge of conventional southeastern crop production relevant to Alabama?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have interest and ability to develop collaborative partnerships within and across university disciplines, at national, international, and within private sectors?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you have the ability and willingness to effectively advise and mentor students from a variety of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question