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Weed Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sandridge Partners

Pest Control Advisor

Buttonwillow, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Monitoring plant development, nutritionist and weed status. Write pest control recommendations to ... Other technical tasks as assigned Qualification Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural Science, Plant ...

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All JobsWeed Science JobsWeed Science Jobs in California

Weed Science information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$47.8K

$78K

How much do weed science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for weed science in California is $47,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $51,300.00 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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Weed Science jobs in California?

For Weed Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Weed Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Weed Science jobs in California are:

Weed Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weed Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $47,757 per year, or $23 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Container Nursery (Ornamental plant production) Weed Management

University of Florida

Orange, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

University Of Florida rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Container Nursery (Ornamental plant production) Weed Management

Apply now Job no: 540657
Work type: Post Doc Associate
Location: Orange
Categories: Biology/Life Science, Agricultural Sciences
Department:60870000 - AG-MREC-APOPKA

Classification Title:

Postdoc Aso

Classification Minimum Requirements:

The appointee shall have received the doctorate in a field appropriate to the assigned duties and responsibilities.

Job Description:

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is creating an environment that affirms community across all dimensions. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF . 

We are seeking applications to fill a postdoctoral research associate position with UF/IFAS located off campus at the Mid Florida Research and Education Center (MREC) near Orlando, Florida. This is an exciting opportunity to pursue applied and basic research relating to weed biology and management in ornamental crops. This position will be an initial 18 month appointment with a possible extension, working with MREC faculty coordinating and conducting research on:

  • Growth, reproduction, and germination requirements for common and emerging weed species important in Florida container nurseries
  • Use of plant growth regulators and alternative strategies for weed and labor management in container nurseries and landscapes
  • Development of alternative and non-chemical methods of weed control by altering production practices and cultural management strategies.
  • Assessment of herbicide efficacy, leaching, and fate in container nurseries
  • Growth response of weeds to differing soilless substrate compositions, fertilization, and irrigation management practices
  • Screening preemergence herbicides and ornamentals for safety and efficacy to develop more effective preemergence herbicide rotations for nursery growers
  • Determining ornamental crop response to weed management strategies and their growth and resource utilization when grown in competition with weed species

Specific operational tasks for the position will involve but are not limited to:

  • Plan, design, manage, and conduct controlled environment experiments to investigate weed physiology and horticultural production practices.
  • Collect, manage, analyze and interpret data from the experiments, and produce publications and reports synthesizing research results in the context of relevant literature.
  • Coordinate undergraduate students and interns assisting in research projects

MREC is located in the Orlando metropolitan area, northwest Orange county and 15 miles from a vibrant, multi-cultural downtown and right next to Lake Apopka, one of Florida's largest and encompassing the world famous North Shore wildlife refuge.  Housing is affordable and widely available.  Benefits include health and dental, and 130.5 hours of annual leave.

Questions regarding the position should be emailed to Dr. Chris Marble (marblesc@ufl.edu).

Background Information:

The University of Florida is a Land-Grant, Sea-Grant, and Space-Grant institution, encompassing virtually all academic and professional disciplines, with an enrollment of more than 56,000 students.  UF is a member of The Association of American Universities.  The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences includes the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, the College of Veterinary Medicine, the Florida Sea Grant program, and encompasses 16 on-campus academic departments and schools, 12 Research and Educational Centers (REC) located throughout the state, 6 Research sites/demonstration units administered by RECs or academic departments, and Florida Cooperative Extension Service offices in all 67 counties (counties operate and maintain). The School of Natural Resources and Environment is an interdisciplinary unit housed in IFAS and managed by several colleges on campus.  UF/IFAS employs nearly 4,500 people, which includes approximately 990 salaried faculty and 1,400 permanent support personnel located in Gainesville and throughout the state. IFAS, one of the nation's largest agricultural and natural resources research and education organizations, is administered by a Vice President and four deans: the Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the Dean for Extension and Director of the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, the Dean for Research and Director of the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, and the Dean for the College of Veterinary Medicine.  UF/IFAS also engages in cooperative work with Florida A&M University in Tallahassee.  

Expected Salary:

Commensurate with Education and Experience

Required Qualifications:

A Ph.D. (foreign equivalent acceptable) degree in weed science, horticulture, plant biology, crop science, agronomy, forestry, or a related discipline of plant science with a focus on horticultural/plant production is required. Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system.  Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.   

Preferred:

A strong record of course work and independent research in subjects such as weed science, container production, pest management, controlled environments, and crop and soil management is desirable. Abilities and skills in statistical analyses, data management and visualization, and scientific writing is desirable.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Individuals wishing to apply should go online to Careers at UF by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date and submit: 

  • A cover letter explaining your interest in the position and describing your relevant skill set
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information (including email addresses) for 3 individuals willing to write letters of recommendation 

Selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire.A transcript will not be considered "official" if a designation of "Issued to Student" is visible.Degrees earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). 

Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the US. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. The University and greater Gainesville community enjoy a variety of cultural events, restaurants, year-round outdoor recreational activities, and social opportunities. 

Health Assessment Required: No

Advertised: 23 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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About University of Florida

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The University of Florida is one of the top ranked public universities in the United States (ranked top 5 amongst public universities in 2023 US news and world report). It is one of only a few comprehensive universities, having medical, veterinary, dental, nursing, public health, and engineering disciplines all co-localized on the same, contiguous campus to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration. Gainesville is located in the northern region of Florida, within 1-1.5 hours of each coast, and just 1.5-2 hours to Orlando and Tampa. It is a small to medium-sized city with a low cost of living, excellent public and private schools, and southern hospitality. While Gainesville is widely recognized as the home of the Gators, it is quickly becoming known as a center for innovation and a place with a lifestyle that's comfortable for families, yet attractive for young professionals.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Gainesville, FL, US

Year founded

1853

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