Agricultural Entomologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of progressive farming, the role of agricultural entomologists has become increasingly vital.

As agriculture continues to evolve, the demand for knowledgeable individuals capable of studying, managing, and leveraging insects for agricultural development grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an agricultural entomologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core aspects of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex role of agricultural entomology,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable agricultural entomologist job description template, devised for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Agricultural Entomologist Duties and Responsibilities

Agricultural Entomologists study insects that harm crops and livestock.

Their work includes researching the life cycles, behaviors, and habitats of these insects and finding ways to control their impact on agriculture.

The duties and responsibilities of an Agricultural Entomologist include:

• Conducting extensive research on insects that affect agricultural productivity
• Identifying insects, their behaviors, and their interaction with the environment
• Developing and implementing pest management strategies to control the impact of harmful insects on crops
• Monitoring and predicting insect infestations and diseases
• Conducting field studies and experiments to understand insect behaviors and life cycles
• Collaborating with farmers, agricultural consultants, and policy makers to mitigate the impact of pests
• Educating farmers and the public about the importance of insects in the ecosystem and the dangers of harmful insect species
• Writing research papers, reports, and recommendations based on findings
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in entomology and related scientific disciplines

 

Agricultural Entomologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Agricultural Entomologist to join our team.

The successful candidate will study insects that affect agricultural productivity and propose solutions to manage pests effectively.

The role requires a deep understanding of entomology, crop production, and agricultural practices.

The Agricultural Entomologist will be responsible for conducting field and lab research, analyzing data, and developing strategies to control harmful insect populations.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct field and laboratory studies on insect behavior, life cycle, and the impact on crops and livestock
• Develop and implement pest management programs for agricultural crops
• Identify and classify new or unknown species of insects and pests
• Evaluate the damage caused by pests and recommend effective solutions
• Publish research findings in scientific journals
• Provide advice and consultation to farmers, agricultural businesses, and government agencies
• Stay updated with latest research and advances in entomology
• Collaborate with other scientists on interdisciplinary projects

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Agricultural Entomologist or similar role
• PhD or Master’s degree in Entomology or a related field
• Knowledge of various research methods and statistical analysis
• Ability to identify and classify various insect species
• Experience with GIS and remote sensing applications
• Excellent observation and analytical skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

 

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Relocation assistance (if applicable)

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Agricultural Entomologist
• Work Environment: This role involves a combination of office work and fieldwork. Travel may be required for research and to visit agricultural sites.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Agricultural Scientist or Research Director.
• 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 Agricultural Entomologist Do?

Agricultural Entomologists are specialized scientists who study insects and their relationship to plants, humans and the environment, mainly in agricultural settings.

Their primary role involves researching and investigating the behavior, biology, ecology, classification and population dynamics of insects.

This is crucial in developing methods to control potentially harmful insect species and promote beneficial ones, which directly impacts crop health and yield.

In addition to research, agricultural entomologists also provide consultation to farmers and agricultural businesses.

They advise on pest management strategies including the use of pesticides, biological control methods and cultivation practices to deter harmful insects and promote beneficial ones.

They may also conduct field studies and laboratory experiments to understand the impact of insects on crop production and devise methods to manage and control pest infestations.

Furthermore, they often collaborate with other agricultural scientists, stakeholders, and policy-makers to implement their findings and recommendations.

Agricultural Entomologists also have a role in educating the public, farmers, and other professionals about insects and their impact on agriculture.

They may develop informational materials, give presentations, or lead workshops on this topic.

 

Agricultural Entomologist Qualifications and Skills

Agricultural Entomologists use a blend of scientific knowledge, field expertise, and problem-solving abilities to address pest-related issues in agriculture.

These include:

• Strong knowledge of entomology, especially as it pertains to agricultural pests and beneficial insects, to understand their behavior, lifecycle, and impact on crops.
• Scientific research skills to conduct studies on pest behavior, devise ways to combat harmful pests, and measure the effectiveness of these methods.
• Problem-solving skills to identify the root cause of pest-related issues and to develop effective, practical solutions that can be implemented in the field.
• Communication skills to effectively relay findings, recommendations, and instructions to farmers, agricultural workers, and other stakeholders. Also, to present scientific findings to the broader scientific community through presentations and research papers.
• Fieldwork abilities to carry out studies and implement pest control measures in various agricultural settings. This may require physical stamina and the ability to work in various weather conditions.
• Understanding of safety protocols and regulations to ensure that pest control methods are safe for humans, animals, and the environment.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and data interpretation to analyze research data and make evidence-based recommendations.

 

Agricultural Entomologist Experience Requirements

Agricultural Entomologists typically start their career path with a Bachelor’s degree in Entomology, Biology, or a related field.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or research assistant roles in agriculture, horticulture, or pest management.

During this time, they may gain hands-on experience in insect identification, pest management, and insect-plant interactions.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience typically have deeper knowledge in areas such as integrated pest management, pesticide resistance, and ecological entomology.

They may have also contributed to scientific research in the field of agricultural entomology.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have held roles such as Senior Entomologist or Pest Management Specialist, indicating a high level of technical proficiency and potentially some leadership experience.

These candidates may also be well-versed in biocontrol methods and possess advanced knowledge of insect pathology.

They may be prepared for roles such as Agricultural Entomologist Consultant or Team Lead in Pest Management.

In addition to these experience levels, many roles in agricultural entomology require a Master’s or Doctoral degree in Entomology, or a related field.

Moreover, professional certifications from bodies like the Entomological Society of America can be advantageous.

 

Agricultural Entomologist Education and Training Requirements

Agricultural Entomologists typically require a bachelor’s degree in Entomology, Biology, or another closely related field as a basic educational requirement.

This degree should incorporate studies in insects, pest management, crop production, and biological sciences.

For advanced positions or research roles, a master’s or doctorate degree in Entomology, focusing on agriculture, is often necessary.

These advanced studies offer students the opportunity to conduct original research, participate in field studies, and specialize in specific areas of agricultural entomology.

Agricultural Entomologists should also have a strong foundation in laboratory techniques, statistics, and scientific methodology.

Knowledge of specific pests, their lifecycle, and impact on crops is also crucial.

Licensure may be required depending on the jurisdiction and specific job role, such as pesticide application.

This generally involves passing an examination.

Continuing education is important in this field due to the continuous development of new pest management techniques and regulations.

Therefore, many Agricultural Entomologists attend workshops, conferences, and other training programs throughout their careers.

Although not required, certification from a recognized professional body, such as the Entomological Society of America, can enhance job prospects and demonstrate a high level of competency in the field.

 

Agricultural Entomologist Salary Expectations

An Agricultural Entomologist earns an average salary of $63,270 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can fluctuate depending on factors such as educational background, years of experience in the field, and the location of employment.

 

Agricultural Entomologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Agricultural Entomologist need?

Agricultural Entomologists require sharp observational and analytical skills to identify insects, understand their behavior, and study their impact on crops.

They should also possess research and laboratory skills to conduct experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions.

Good communication and writing skills are essential to present findings and advise farmers or agricultural companies.

 

Do Agricultural Entomologists need a degree?

Yes, Agricultural Entomologists usually need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in entomology, biology, or a closely related field.

However, many positions may require a master’s or doctoral degree, especially for research-oriented roles.

Specialization in agricultural entomology is often preferred.

 

What should you look for in an Agricultural Entomologist’s resume?

Look for a strong educational background in entomology or a related field.

Evidence of fieldwork or lab experience, especially related to agricultural pests, is an asset.

Publications in scientific journals, participation in professional organizations, and familiarity with data analysis software can also be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Agricultural Entomologist?

A good Agricultural Entomologist should have a keen interest in insects and their interaction with the environment.

They should be patient and meticulous, as the job often involves detailed observation and analysis.

Good problem-solving skills are important to devise pest management strategies.

They should also be able to work both independently and in a team, as the role can involve a mix of fieldwork, lab research, and collaboration with other scientists.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Agricultural Entomologist?

Hiring an Agricultural Entomologist can be challenging, particularly in regions with fewer educational institutions offering specialized degrees in entomology.

The role requires specific expertise and field experience.

It may be beneficial to seek candidates who are willing to relocate or to partner with universities or professional entomological organizations during the recruitment process.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve dug deep into the soil of what it truly means to be an agricultural entomologist.

And you know what?

It’s not just about studying bugs.

It’s about safeguarding our food supply, one insect at a time.

With our comprehensive agricultural entomologist job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for creating precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every insect you study contributes to a larger understanding.

Let’s cultivate that understanding. Together.

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