Extension Entomologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern world, the focus on extension entomologists has never been more pronounced.

Agriculture continues to evolve, and with each advancement, the need for skilled individuals who can study, manage, and protect our insect populations grows stronger.

But let’s delve a bit deeper: What’s truly expected from an extension entomologist?

Whether you are:

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

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable extension entomologist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Extension Entomologist Duties and Responsibilities

Extension Entomologists are specialized scientists who study insects and their relation to the environment, plants, and animals, typically in an agricultural context.

They also play a significant role in educating the public, farmers, and other stakeholders about insects and pest management.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Researching and studying insect species, their behaviors, life cycles, and the impact on their environment and crops
• Developing and implementing integrated pest management strategies
• Teaching and educating farmers and the public about insects, pest management, and beneficial insects
• Conducting field and lab experiments to collect data on insect populations and their impact on crops
• Advising farmers and other stakeholders on the appropriate use of pesticides and other pest management techniques
• Writing research papers, reports, and articles to disseminate research findings
• Collaborating with other scientists and researchers in related fields to better understand and manage insect populations
• Providing expert advice during pest infestations and outbreaks
• Applying for and managing research grants

 

Extension Entomologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Extension Entomologist to join our team.

You will be responsible for studying insects and their relationship with the environment, human beings, and other organisms.

Your role includes managing pests, conducting research, and providing education and outreach to the public.

The successful candidate should have an in-depth knowledge of entomology, excellent research skills, and a passion for outreach and education.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on insects and related organisms
• Develop and implement pest management strategies
• Collaborate with other scientists on interdisciplinary research projects
• Disseminate research findings through publications, reports, and presentations
• Provide education and outreach to the public, farmers, and other stakeholders on pest management and insect-related issues
• Monitor and document insect behavior, populations, and their effects on the environment and humans
• Work collaboratively with laboratory staff and supervise research assistants

 

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Entomology or a related field
• Proven experience as an entomologist, preferably in extension services
• Excellent knowledge of insect biology, ecology, and identification
• Experience with pest management strategies and techniques
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to present complex information to a variety of audiences

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Relocation assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Extension Entomologist
• Work Environment: Lab and field settings. Some travel may be required for research and outreach activities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Entomology Department or Research Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $85,000 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 Extension Entomologist Do?

An Extension Entomologist is a specialist who primarily works in the field of agriculture, forestry, and horticulture.

They also work in collaboration with other scientists, farmers, and organizations to manage and control insects that pose a threat to the environment, humans, and animals.

Their primary responsibility is to research insects, their behaviors, life cycles, and the impact they have on the environment and ecosystems.

They apply this research to develop and recommend strategies to control harmful insect populations and prevent infestations.

Extension Entomologists often conduct presentations, workshops, and training sessions to educate farmers, agricultural workers, and the general public about various insect species and methods of controlling them.

They also provide solutions for managing pests without harming beneficial insects.

They produce informational materials, such as bulletins, guides, and fact sheets, to assist individuals in understanding and managing insects.

Another crucial part of their role involves responding to inquiries related to insects, diagnosing insect problems, and giving advice on treatment methods.

In some cases, they might need to conduct field visits to assess insect-related issues personally.

They work closely with policymakers, advising them on insect-related matters, helping to develop relevant policies and regulations.

 

Extension Entomologist Qualifications and Skills

An Extension Entomologist requires a specialized set of skills and qualifications to effectively perform their duties, which include:

• Extensive knowledge of entomology, including the biology, behavior and ecology of insects and other arthropods.
• Research skills to study insects and their relationship with the environment, plants, and humans.
• Communication skills to effectively convey research findings and educational information to farmers, the public, and other stakeholders.
• Presentation skills to conduct educational seminars and workshops on pest management and to share new entomological research findings.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and develop strategies to manage pest-related issues.
• Technical writing skills for the creation of scientific reports, articles, and educational materials.
• Experience with data analysis and statistical software to analyze and interpret research data.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with a diverse group of people, including farmers, scientists, and policy makers.

 

Extension Entomologist Experience Requirements

Extension Entomologists typically require a master’s degree in entomology or a related field, with several years of field experience in research, teaching, or extension work.

For entry-level roles, 1-2 years of experience is often required.

This experience can be obtained through internships, research assistant roles, or field study related to entomology.

Candidates with 3-5 years of experience usually have a well-rounded knowledge of entomological research, often having worked in both laboratory and field environments.

They may also have experience in applying research findings to help solve issues in agriculture, public health, or conservation.

Professionals with over 5 years of experience in the field often have a deep expertise in a particular area of entomology and may have presented their research at academic conferences or published in scientific journals.

At this level, they may have also gained some leadership or managerial experience, either through leading research projects or managing teams of research assistants or interns.

In addition, Extension Entomologists should have strong communication skills to effectively disseminate their research findings and recommendations to farmers, agricultural organizations, policymakers, and the public.

Experience with public speaking, writing research reports or articles, and developing educational materials or programs can be advantageous.

 

Extension Entomologist Education and Training Requirements

An Extension Entomologist typically requires a bachelor’s degree in entomology, biology, or a related field as a minimum educational requirement.

Courses in this major may include insect biology, pest management, and insect ecology.

Laboratory and fieldwork are often included in these courses, providing hands-on experience in identifying and studying insects.

Many extension entomologists also hold a master’s degree or even a Ph.D. in Entomology or a related field.

This advanced education often focuses on more specialized areas of entomology, such as integrated pest management or agricultural entomology.

In addition, an extension entomologist needs to have a good understanding of the community outreach programs and the skills to communicate scientific information to a non-scientific audience.

Therefore, training or experience in education, community outreach, or communication can be beneficial.

Some states or organizations may require extension entomologists to be certified.

The certification process generally involves passing an exam that tests knowledge of entomology and sometimes requires a certain amount of work experience.

Continued education is important in this field, as research and methods in entomology are constantly evolving.

This can be achieved through professional development courses, workshops, or conferences.

 

Extension Entomologist Salary Expectations

An Extension Entomologist can expect to earn an average salary of $63,270 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, geographical location, and the employing organization.

 

Extension Entomologist Job Description FAQs

What is the educational requirement for an Extension Entomologist?

Most Extension Entomologist positions require a minimum of a Master’s degree in Entomology, Zoology, Biology, or a related field.

Some positions may require a PhD, especially those involving research or teaching at a university level.

Additionally, practical experience in dealing with pest management, insect identification, and public outreach can be beneficial.

 

What are the daily duties of an Extension Entomologist?

Extension Entomologists typically spend their day conducting research on various insect species, their behavior, and their interaction with the environment.

They may also be involved in developing pest management strategies and delivering educational programs to farmers, homeowners, and other stakeholders.

Some of their time might be spent in labs analyzing samples, while other times they could be in the field collecting specimens.

 

What qualities make a good Extension Entomologist?

A good Extension Entomologist has a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the behavior and characteristics of various insect species.

They should be curious and enjoy conducting research.

Strong communication skills are essential as they often need to present their findings to different audiences.

Problem-solving and analytical skills are also critical as they need to devise strategies to control and manage pests effectively.

 

How competitive is the job market for Extension Entomologists?

The job market for Extension Entomologists is moderately competitive.

The demand for these professionals is relatively steady as they play a crucial role in managing pests and protecting crops and public health.

However, the number of people pursuing careers in this field is also modest, leading to a balanced market.

Those with advanced degrees and extensive experience often have the best job prospects.

 

What should you look for in an Extension Entomologist resume?

An Extension Entomologist resume should showcase a strong academic background in entomology or a related field.

It should also highlight any experience in pest management, research, and public outreach.

Look for evidence of strong analytical skills, as well as the ability to communicate complex information effectively.

Any published research, presentations given, or involvement in professional organizations can also be a plus.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the fascinating world of an extension entomologist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about studying insects.

It’s about shaping our understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem health, one insect at a time.

With our comprehensive extension entomologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to embark on this exciting journey.

But why end the exploration here?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your companion for creating meticulously detailed listings or tailoring your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every insect studied is a part of the bigger ecosystem.

Let’s unravel the mysteries of nature. Together.

How to Become an Extension Entomologist (Complete Guide)

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