The Department of Entomology at Purdue University invites applications for a non-tenure track ... Secure external funding through grants, industry contracts and partnerships to support ongoing ...
The Department of Entomology at Purdue University invites applications for a non-tenure track ... Secure external funding through grants, industry contracts and partnerships to support ongoing ...
Contract Entomologist information
See Indiana salary details
$25.7K - $30.3K
6% of jobs
$30.3K - $34.9K
0% of jobs
$34.9K - $39.4K
0% of jobs
$39.4K - $44K
6% of jobs
$44K - $48.6K
4% of jobs
$48.6K - $53.2K
2% of jobs
$53.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$53.2K - $57.8K
38% of jobs
$57.8K - $62.4K
7% of jobs
$65.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$62.4K - $67K
16% of jobs
$67K - $71.5K
9% of jobs
$71.5K - $76.1K
11% of jobs
$25.7K
$58.5K
$76.1K
How much do contract entomologist jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract entomologist in Indiana is $58,548.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,200.00 and $67,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract entomologist, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Contract Entomologist, you need a solid background in entomology, biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, field sampling tools, and data analysis software such as GIS or statistical programs is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurate reporting and collaboration with clients or research teams. These competencies are vital for producing reliable scientific outcomes and ensuring the success of pest management, research, or survey projects.
What is the difference between Contract Entomologist vs Pest Control Technician?
| Aspect | Contract Entomologist | Pest Control Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Entomology degree, certifications (e.g., Structural Pest Control License) | Licensing required, training on pest management |
| Work Environment | Research settings, consulting, inspections for industries or government | Fieldwork, residential and commercial pest treatments |
| Employer & Industry | Government agencies, pest management companies, research firms | Pest control companies, residential and commercial clients |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Understanding specialized pest management roles, consulting | Finding pest control services, treatment options |
Contract Entomologists focus on research, consulting, and inspections, often requiring advanced entomology credentials. Pest Control Technicians primarily perform pest treatments in residential and commercial settings, with licensing and training suited for fieldwork. While both roles involve pest management, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.
What is a contract entomologist?
Contract entomologists are professionals who study insects and are hired on a project or temporary basis rather than as permanent staff. They often work for government agencies, private companies, or research organizations to conduct surveys, pest identification, environmental assessments, or research projects. Their specialized expertise is used for specific needs, such as monitoring pest populations, advising on pest management, or supporting biodiversity studies. This flexible arrangement allows organizations to access entomological expertise when needed without committing to a long-term position.
What are some common challenges faced by contract entomologists when working with multiple clients or projects simultaneously?
Contract entomologists often juggle several projects at once, each with unique requirements and timelines. Managing diverse client expectations, adapting to different fieldwork conditions, and staying updated on regulatory or reporting standards can be challenging. Effective organization, clear communication, and the ability to quickly integrate into various teams are essential for success in this dynamic environment. These challenges also provide valuable experience and opportunities to broaden expertise across different sectors.
What are the most commonly searched types of Entomologist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Entomologist jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Entomologist jobs in Indiana? For Contract Entomologist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Entomologist jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Entomologist jobs in Indiana are:
Full-time
Medical, Life, Retirement
Re-posted 10 days ago
Purdue University rating
7.5
Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
310th of 618 rated colleges and universities
Job description
Professor Research Assistant
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Position Summary:
The Department of Entomology at Purdue University invites applications for a non-tenure track Assistant/Associate Research Professor, Biology and Management of Urban Pests. The successful candidate will engage with the national pest management industry and conduct high-impact research in one or more areas of basic and applied urban pest management, with an emphasis on pests of built environments such as cockroaches and bed bugs. Research could encompass the biology and behavior of pests, their response to pesticides, including physiological and genetic mechanisms of resistance, innovations in applied pest management research (e.g., molecular, computational modeling, or artificial intelligence based approaches) and the development of sustainable pest management technologies. The successful candidate will become an integral member of the Center for Urban and Industrial Pest Management (CUIPM) which is nationally recognized for leadership in urban entomology. The position will synergize a number of related urban entomology faculty and programs at Purdue and engage with stakeholder groups to address pressing issues associated with urban pests. This is a nine-month appointment with a focus on research and minor instructional responsibilities. The position may contribute to undergraduate learning through research experiential courses (ENTM 39300 Insect Biology Practicum and ENTM 49300 Insect Biology Capstone), and training and mentorship of graduate students, postdoctoral and visiting scientists. Start date may be as early as 1 June, 2025.
Responsibilities:
Qualifications
Salary and Benefits:
This is a 9-month non-tenure track position with a focus on research. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Excellent fringe benefit package that includes Fidelity retirement program, medical, and life and disability insurance. Opportunities for promotion within the research faculty are available, and more information can be found in the Procedures for Research Faculty Appointment, Review, and Promotion linked here: Office of the Provost - Purdue University https://www.purdue.edu/provost/policies/promotion-research.html .
To Apply:
Applications should include a cover letter addressing the applicant's qualifications
and experience, a statement of research goals, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. All materials must be combined into one PDF and submitted electronically via this site: https://careers.purdue.edu/job/Professor-Research-Assistant/36790-en_US/
Application review will begin May 12th and continue until a successful candidate is identified. For more information, please contact the Search Committee Chairs, Dr. Jose Pietri (jpietric@purdue.edu) and Dr. Douglas Richmond (drichmond@purdue.edu).
The Department is an integral part of the College of Agriculture, one of the world's leading colleges of agricultural, food, life, and natural resource sciences and ranked fifth in the world in the 2024 QS World University Rankings. The College is deeply committed to the three land-grant missions (teaching, research, and extension), to international activities and perspectives that span all missions, and to excellence in all we do. The College has 11 academic departments, 290 faculty, 2984 undergraduate students, and 690 graduate students.
A background check is required for employment in this position
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Position Summary:
The Department of Entomology at Purdue University invites applications for a non-tenure track Assistant/Associate Research Professor, Biology and Management of Urban Pests. The successful candidate will engage with the national pest management industry and conduct high-impact research in one or more areas of basic and applied urban pest management, with an emphasis on pests of built environments such as cockroaches and bed bugs. Research could encompass the biology and behavior of pests, their response to pesticides, including physiological and genetic mechanisms of resistance, innovations in applied pest management research (e.g., molecular, computational modeling, or artificial intelligence based approaches) and the development of sustainable pest management technologies. The successful candidate will become an integral member of the Center for Urban and Industrial Pest Management (CUIPM) which is nationally recognized for leadership in urban entomology. The position will synergize a number of related urban entomology faculty and programs at Purdue and engage with stakeholder groups to address pressing issues associated with urban pests. This is a nine-month appointment with a focus on research and minor instructional responsibilities. The position may contribute to undergraduate learning through research experiential courses (ENTM 39300 Insect Biology Practicum and ENTM 49300 Insect Biology Capstone), and training and mentorship of graduate students, postdoctoral and visiting scientists. Start date may be as early as 1 June, 2025.
Responsibilities:
- Lead a nationally recognized research program focused on the basic biology of urban pests and advancement of modern, sustainable pest management solutions and technologies.
- Secure external funding through grants, industry contracts and partnerships to support ongoing research
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences.
- Organize and lead seminars, workshops and industry-specific training sessions to disseminate research findings and best practices for indoor pest management.
- Maintain ongoing communication with stakeholders to foster collaborations, gather feedback on research priorities and ensure that research is aligned with industry needs and challenges.
- Represent the CUIPM at industry meetings and conferences to promote research capabilities and develop new collaborations.
- Work synergistically with faculty from within the department of entomology and across the university to further elevate discovery.
- Mentor graduate students, postdoctoral scientists and visiting scholars and contribute to the achievement of instructional outcomes by supporting undergraduate student training.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. and minimum one year postdoctoral training in entomology or related discipline. Experience in computational modeling and artificial intelligence is desirable.
- Records of excellence in research, publication, project management, and mentoring required.
- Inter-disciplinary research experience, the ability to interact with a broad spectrum of researchers and clientele groups, and willingness to engage the urban pest management industry are highly desirable.
Salary and Benefits:
This is a 9-month non-tenure track position with a focus on research. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Excellent fringe benefit package that includes Fidelity retirement program, medical, and life and disability insurance. Opportunities for promotion within the research faculty are available, and more information can be found in the Procedures for Research Faculty Appointment, Review, and Promotion linked here: Office of the Provost - Purdue University https://www.purdue.edu/provost/policies/promotion-research.html .
To Apply:
Applications should include a cover letter addressing the applicant's qualifications
and experience, a statement of research goals, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. All materials must be combined into one PDF and submitted electronically via this site: https://careers.purdue.edu/job/Professor-Research-Assistant/36790-en_US/
Application review will begin May 12th and continue until a successful candidate is identified. For more information, please contact the Search Committee Chairs, Dr. Jose Pietri (jpietric@purdue.edu) and Dr. Douglas Richmond (drichmond@purdue.edu).
The Department is an integral part of the College of Agriculture, one of the world's leading colleges of agricultural, food, life, and natural resource sciences and ranked fifth in the world in the 2024 QS World University Rankings. The College is deeply committed to the three land-grant missions (teaching, research, and extension), to international activities and perspectives that span all missions, and to excellence in all we do. The College has 11 academic departments, 290 faculty, 2984 undergraduate students, and 690 graduate students.
A background check is required for employment in this position
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.
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About Purdue University
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Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
West Lafayette, IN, US
Year founded
1962