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Entomologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Entomology Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories: Agriculture / Life Science The Urban Evolutionary Entomology Laboratory at Virginia Tech is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral associate to ...

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Entomologist information

See Virginia salary details

$26.8K

$61K

$79.3K

How much do entomologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entomologist in Virginia is $61,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $69,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entomologist?

An entomologist specializes in the study of insects, including their development, anatomy, and interaction with their environment. As an entomologist, your responsibilities may include the collection of specimens, conducting research regarding the impact of insects on everything from crops to corpses, and working with a variety of different industries to address concerns and needs regarding insects. Many entomologists have an area of expertise, such as forensic science, environmental impact, or epidemiology.

What is an entomologist?

An entomologist is a scientist who studies insects and their relationships to humans, other organisms, and the environment. Entomologists may work in many fields, including agriculture, public health, conservation, and research, where they help identify insect species, study their behaviors, and find ways to manage pest populations. Their work is important for understanding biodiversity, protecting crops, and controlling diseases spread by insects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entomologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entomologist, you need a solid background in biological sciences, particularly in entomology, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree and preferably an advanced degree for research roles. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software, and field sampling tools is typically required, and certifications such as pesticide applicator licenses may be beneficial depending on the specialization. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help entomologists excel in research, reporting, and collaboration with colleagues or stakeholders. These skills are vital for conducting accurate research, solving complex ecological or agricultural problems, and effectively sharing findings to advance science and inform public policy.

How do entomologists typically collaborate with professionals in other scientific fields?

Entomologists often work closely with experts from fields such as agriculture, ecology, public health, and environmental science. For example, they may team up with agricultural scientists to develop integrated pest management strategies or partner with epidemiologists to study insect-borne diseases. These collaborations allow entomologists to apply their specialized knowledge of insects to broader projects, enhancing research outcomes and creating multidisciplinary solutions to complex problems. Being comfortable working in cross-functional teams is an important aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Entomologist vs Pest Control Technician?

AspectEntomologistPest Control Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in entomology or related field; certifications may include state licensesHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires state pest control licenses
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, field studies, government agenciesResidential, commercial, and industrial pest control sites
Industry UsageResearch, academia, government, pest management companiesPrivate pest control companies, property management
Common Search/ComparisonEntomologist vs Pest Control Technician

While both roles involve working with insects, entomologists focus on research, studying insect behavior, and taxonomy, often in labs or academic settings. Pest control technicians primarily provide pest management services in residential and commercial environments, applying treatments to eliminate pests. The roles differ in education, work environment, and job focus, but both require knowledge of insects and their control methods.

Do entomologists get paid a lot?

Entomologists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and work setting, but they generally earn a median annual wage around $70,000. Those working in government or research institutions tend to have higher salaries, while entry-level positions may pay less. Advanced degrees and specialized skills can lead to higher compensation in this field.

Is there a demand for entomologists?

Entomologists are in demand in sectors such as agriculture, public health, and research, with employment opportunities expected to grow as pest management, disease control, and environmental conservation become increasingly important. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists, including entomologists, to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031. Advanced degrees and specialized skills in pest management or research can enhance job prospects.

What are 5 potential jobs for entomologist?

Entomologists can work in various roles including research scientist, pest management specialist, agricultural consultant, environmental consultant, and museum or collection curator. These positions often require fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and knowledge of insect biology and ecology. Opportunities exist in government agencies, research institutions, agriculture, public health, and conservation organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Entomologist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Entomologist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Entomologist jobs in Virginia?

For Entomologist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entomologist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entomologist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entomologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entomologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entomologist jobs in VA?

For Entomologist jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entomologist job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,001 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Aquatic Entomology Research Technician

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Virginia Tech
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Aquatic Entomology Research Technician

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537427
Work type: Hourly Wage/Part-Time
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: Entomology
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science

Job Description

Assist with field and lab work. The applicant needs to know the basic field sampling methods for streams, rivers and wetlands that will be used to assess water condition and biological community composition and ecosystem processes. In the lab, water sample processing and aquatic invertebrate sampling will be conducted. A research technician is needed to oversee aquatic entomology projects, with an emphasis on supporting on-going field and laboratory projects supervised by Dr. Sally Entrekin

Required Qualifications

B.S. in biology, entomology or related field; or equivalent years of training and experience; Knowledge of aquatic ecology; Experience with ecological field work; Experience working under less than ideal environmental conditions: e.g., winter and summer sampling that requires long hikes to field sites with heavy packs.

Preferred Qualifications

B.S. in biology, entomology or related field; Basic experience with aquatic field sampling techniques, identification of macroinvertebrates to the genus level, and an interest in aquatic ecology and entomology.

Pay Band

2

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$20.00/hr.

Hours per week

32

Review Date

09/03/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Sally Entrekin at sallye@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: August 24, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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