Ornamental Plant Breeder Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of aesthetic appeal, the focus on ornamental plant breeders has never been more defined.

As nature’s beauty evolves, so does the demand for skilled hands who can cultivate, innovate, and protect our ornamental flora.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an ornamental plant breeder?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring horticulturist trying to comprehend the details of this role,
• A recruitment manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate art of plant breeding,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable ornamental plant breeder job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Ornamental Plant Breeder Duties and Responsibilities

Ornamental Plant Breeders are responsible for creating new varieties of plants with desirable traits that are appealing and beneficial to gardeners and landscapers.

They use their understanding of genetics and plant science in their work.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting research on plant genetics and finding ways to improve plant varieties
• Developing new varieties of ornamental plants through selective breeding processes
• Performing cross-pollination of plants manually to create new hybrids
• Monitoring and documenting the growth and development of new plant varieties
• Evaluating the quality of new plant varieties in terms of their color, size, shape, and resistance to diseases and pests
• Ensuring the growth conditions for plants, including soil, water, and light, are optimal for their development
• Conducting field trials to test the performance of new plant varieties in different environmental conditions
• Collaborating with other scientists and researchers in the field of horticulture to learn about the latest breeding techniques and plant varieties
• Propagating plants for commercial distribution
• Documenting breeding activities and findings for future reference and patent applications

 

Ornamental Plant Breeder Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and innovative Ornamental Plant Breeder to join our team.

Your role will involve creating new plant varieties through selective breeding practices, conducting research, and assessing plant health.

Candidates should have a strong understanding of plant genetics, exceptional observation skills, and a passion for horticulture.

Ultimately, the role of the Ornamental Plant Breeder is to produce new, high-quality, ornamental plant varieties that are both aesthetically pleasing and commercially viable.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement plant breeding strategies and programs
• Conduct field and greenhouse trials to assess plant performance
• Perform controlled crosses of selected parents
• Monitor plant health and identify pests or diseases
• Document research findings and prepare reports
• Work closely with the marketing team to determine consumer trends and preferences
• Collaborate with other plant breeders and researchers
• Ensure compliance with regulations and industry standards
• Present new varieties to commercial teams and industry bodies

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a plant breeder, preferably with ornamental plants
• Strong knowledge of plant genetics, breeding techniques and horticulture
• Familiarity with plant diseases and pests
• Good observation and record-keeping skills
• Ability to work in various environmental conditions
• Proficiency in using scientific and database software
• BSc degree in Plant Science, Biology, Agriculture or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Ornamental Plant Breeder
• Work Environment: This position requires both office work and fieldwork. The candidate should be comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Plant Breeding.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Ornamental Plant Breeder Do?

Ornamental Plant Breeders are specialized botanists who work in the horticulture industry.

They focus on developing new varieties of plants for ornamental purposes like landscaping, indoor decoration, or public gardens.

Their primary task is to crossbreed different plant varieties, aiming to enhance or modify certain characteristics.

This may include the plant’s color, size, resistance to disease or pests, or adaptation to specific climates.

Ornamental Plant Breeders study the genetic makeup of plants, identifying traits and characteristics that can be enhanced or modified.

They conduct experiments, monitor plant growth, and document results over extended periods.

They also work closely with other professionals like geneticists and horticulturists to ensure the viability and health of newly bred plant varieties.

In addition, they may be responsible for presenting their work at industry events or academic conferences, publishing their research, and securing patents for new plant varieties.

Finally, Ornamental Plant Breeders often collaborate with growers, landscape architects, and retail businesses to understand market trends and consumer preferences, ensuring that the new varieties they develop meet commercial demands.

 

Ornamental Plant Breeder Qualifications and Skills

An Ornamental Plant Breeder should possess a variety of technical and soft skills, along with a comprehensive understanding of plant genetics, to develop new and improved varieties of ornamental plants.

These include:

• Deep understanding of plant genetics, breeding techniques, and plant diseases to develop new, aesthetically pleasing, and disease-resistant varieties of plants.
• Strong observational skills to accurately track and record plant growth, reproduction, and disease resistance over multiple generations.
• Proficient in laboratory techniques like tissue culture, genetic engineering, and molecular biology to manipulate plant genes for desirable traits.
• Research skills to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in plant breeding and genetics, and to experiment with innovative breeding methods.
• Patience and attention to detail, as the plant breeding process can take many years and requires careful monitoring and recording of each generation.
• Strong communication skills to explain the breeding process, plant care requirements, and the benefits of new plant varieties to non-scientific audience, such as gardeners, farmers, and consumers.
• Business acumen and marketing skills to promote new plant varieties and to understand the market trends and consumer preferences in the ornamental plant industry.
• Physical endurance for fieldwork, as plant breeding often involves outdoor activities like planting, cross-pollinating, and harvesting.

 

Ornamental Plant Breeder Experience Requirements

Ornamental Plant Breeders often start their careers with a degree in botany, horticulture, or a related field.

This academic background provides a solid foundation of knowledge in plant biology, genetics, and cultivation techniques.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or part-time roles in a nursery, botanical garden, or other plant-related settings.

This provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in plant propagation, cross-breeding, and genetic modifications.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have further developed their plant breeding skills and knowledge, often in a specialized area of ornamental plant breeding.

They may have been responsible for developing new varieties of plants, improving existing ones, or working on disease-resistant strains.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have experience in project management and overseeing a breeding program from conception to commercialization.

They may have some leadership experience and are often ready for roles that involve managing a team or a large breeding program.

 

Ornamental Plant Breeder Education and Training Requirements

Ornamental Plant Breeders generally require a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, plant science, or a related field.

This degree program should include coursework in plant physiology, plant propagation, plant breeding, plant biochemistry, and genetic engineering.

It’s also beneficial to take courses in business management and marketing, as successful plant breeders often need to understand market trends.

A master’s degree or doctorate can be beneficial for those who want to specialize in a certain type of plant or breeding technique, or for those who want to go into academic or research-based roles.

Many Ornamental Plant Breeders gain practical experience through internships or work experience in nurseries, botanical gardens, or greenhouses.

Some positions may require knowledge and skills in landscape design and plant aesthetics.

Voluntary certification is available for plant breeders.

This certification demonstrates a candidate’s knowledge, experience, and commitment to continuing education in the field of plant breeding.

Continued learning and staying updated with the latest plant breeding techniques and technologies is important for career advancement.

 

Ornamental Plant Breeder Salary Expectations

An Ornamental Plant Breeder can expect to earn an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

This may vary depending on the level of experience, specific industry, and the location of employment.

 

Ornamental Plant Breeder Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Ornamental Plant Breeder need?

Ornamental Plant Breeders need a solid understanding of botany, genetics, and horticulture.

They must possess observational skills to monitor plant changes, along with problem-solving skills to create and improve plant varieties.

They should also have patience and perseverance as plant breeding is a long-term process.

Knowledge of modern breeding techniques and technology are also essential.

 

Do Ornamental Plant Breeders need a degree?

Most Ornamental Plant Breeders hold a bachelor’s degree in botany, horticulture, plant science, or a related field.

However, many professionals in this field have a master’s degree or Ph.D., particularly for research-oriented roles.

Practical experience in plant breeding or horticulture is also highly valued.

 

What should you look for in an Ornamental Plant Breeder resume?

In addition to a relevant degree, look for experience in plant breeding, horticulture, or a related field.

The resume should show knowledge of plant genetics, botany, and horticulture techniques.

Experience with modern plant breeding technology and software is also a big plus.

Also, check for characteristics such as patience, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.

 

What qualities make a good Ornamental Plant Breeder?

A good Ornamental Plant Breeder has a deep passion for plants and is always curious to learn more about them.

They are patient and meticulous, understanding that plant breeding is a time-consuming process that requires detailed record-keeping.

They should also be innovative, always looking for new ways to improve plant varieties and solve breeding challenges.

Finally, effective communication skills are important for collaborating with other scientists and communicating their findings.

 

What is the job outlook for Ornamental Plant Breeders?

As the demand for new and unique plant varieties continues to grow, so does the need for Ornamental Plant Breeders.

However, as it’s a specialized field, there may be limited job opportunities in certain geographical areas.

Expanding the search to include agricultural research institutions, universities, and large-scale commercial nurseries can increase job prospects.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the verdant world of being an ornamental plant breeder.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about planting seeds.

It’s about cultivating beauty and biodiversity, one plant at a time.

With our comprehensive ornamental plant breeder job description template and real-world examples, you’re perfectly primed to make a move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your indispensable tool for creating precision-crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every seed sown contributes to a lush, vibrant garden.

Let’s cultivate that beauty. Together.

How to Become an Ornamental Plant Breeder (Complete Guide)

Recession-Ready: Careers That Withstand Economic Hardships

Job Market Royalty: The Most Prestigious Careers to Rule Them All

The Daily Downers: The Most Hated Jobs in the Daily Grind

Dare to Dream, Dare to Risk: The World’s Most Hazardous Occupations