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Insect Research Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

Audubon Institute

Keeper Entomologist

New Orleans, LA · On-site

... Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon ... Provide animal care to Audubon's living collection at assigned facility-Insectarium or Insect ...

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Insect Research information

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$8

$22

$47

How much do insect research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for insect research in Louisiana is $22.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.40 and $28.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an insect research?

An Insect Research job involves studying insects' behavior, genetics, ecology, and interactions with the environment. Researchers may work in agriculture, conservation, pest control, or medical fields to understand insect roles and impacts. Duties often include fieldwork, data collection, lab experiments, and publishing findings. This research helps in biodiversity conservation, pest management, and disease prevention.

What are typical daily tasks for someone working in insect research?

Insect researchers commonly split their time between fieldwork, where they collect insect specimens or observe behaviors in natural habitats, and laboratory work, which involves analyzing samples, conducting experiments, and recording data. They may use specialized equipment such as microscopes, DNA sequencers, and data analysis software, as well as collaborate with other researchers or support staff. Regular responsibilities also include reviewing scientific literature, preparing reports, and presenting research findings to stakeholders or at conferences. This blend of field, lab, and analytical activities offers variety and hands-on engagement, making the role ideal for those who enjoy both outdoor and scientific work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in insect research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Insect Research, you generally need a degree in entomology, biology, or a related field, along with strong skills in scientific research, data analysis, and fieldwork. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, microscopy, genetic analysis tools, and data management systems is often required, and additional certifications in pest management or research methodologies may be advantageous. Attention to detail, critical thinking, effective communication, and collaboration are valuable soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are essential to conduct rigorous research, accurately interpret results, and share findings effectively within scientific and practical applications.

Are insect research jobs in demand?

Insect research jobs are in demand within fields such as agriculture, environmental science, and pest management, especially as interest in sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation grows. These roles often require specialized knowledge in entomology, laboratory skills, and sometimes fieldwork, with employment opportunities available in academic, government, and private sectors.

How to become an insect researcher?

To become an insect researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in entomology, biology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Gaining experience through internships, fieldwork, and developing skills in specimen collection and identification are important, along with familiarity with research tools and methods used in entomology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Insect Research jobs in Louisiana?

The most popular types of Insect Research jobs in Louisiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Insect Research jobs in Louisiana?

For Insect Research jobs in Louisiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Insect Research jobs in Louisiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Insect Research jobs in Louisiana are:

Insect Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Insect Research job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,346 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Keeper Entomologist

Audubon Institute

New Orleans, LA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Position Title: Keeper Entomologist

Department: Husbandry/Entomology

Reports To: Assistant Curator/Curator of Entomology

Location: Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Type: Full Time

 

Who We Are 

 

Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park.

At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.

 

What You’ll Do:

  • Provide animal care to Audubon’s living collection at assigned facility-Insectarium or Insect Rearing Facility (IRF).  
  • Provide education to the public about Audubon Insectarium’s animals and exhibits when working on the museum floor and occasionally off-site.

 

Day-to-Day Responsibilities 

  • Animal care and exhibit maintenance, including, but not limited to, feeding, capturing and moving animals, enclosure setup, breakdown and cleaning, trash and debris removal, minor construction projects, filter maintenance, and providing enrichment items.    
  • Facility maintenance in animal care areas (sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, washing containers, etc.) including, but not limited to, trash and debris removal, minor construction projects, supply stocking, cleaning and upkeep. 
  • Accurate recordkeeping and compliance with ZIMS.
  • Daily live animal presentations to educate visitors about our collection of animals, conservation initiatives, the interconnectedness of nature, and roles of arthropods in the ecosystems of the world.   These interactions with the public will occur both on and off grounds.   
  • Function as an interpreter and represent ANI as a spokesperson. 
  • Compliance with all AZA and USDA standards regarding the containment of invertebrate collection. 
  • Identify and correct minor or routine maintenance problems in a timely manner and report other, larger, maintenance needs to management. 

Additional/Overall Skills:

  • Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
  • Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
  • Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
  • Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.
  • The above-listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

 

Must-Haves: (required for the role)

  • High school diploma (or equivalent) is required.  A degree from a recognized college or university is preferred, OR a minimum of one year of paid (or unpaid) experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, or similar facility, OR a demonstrated and confirmed skill set via other methods.  
  • Experience with the care of invertebrates with demonstrated success.
  • Understanding the principles of entomology.
  • Understanding natural history, anatomy, behavior, and environmental parameters.  Ability to identify and recognize health concerns with invertebrates.
  • Possessing a strong passion for arthropods and demonstrating this daily.   
  • Understanding basics of professional animal care and welfare standards.
  • Ability to follow directions and act in accordance with all established protocols and procedures. 
  • Ability to work independently and as a part of a team to facilitate daily animal care and excellence in welfare.
  • Good decision-making with regard to human and animal safety.
  • Ability to accomplish daily tasks within an acceptable/ established timeframe.   
  • Must be able to follow simple recipes (with insects as an ingredient).
  • Must be able to work weekends and holidays.
  • Must have access to reliable transportation to get to and from work duty locations.

 

Nice-to-Haves: (preferred for the role)

  • College coursework in entomology, invertebrate zoology, biology, animal behavior, animal science, or related fields.
  • Experience working at a recognized insect museum, butterfly house, zoo, or aquarium.
  • Cooking experience. 
  • ZIMS or other AZA record-keeping experience. 

 

Physical Requirements: 

  • Exerting up to 30 pounds of force occasionally, or a negligible amount of force frequently, to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.  
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time. 
  • Ability to walk or stand for long periods of time.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, and carry items weighing up to 30 pounds.
  • Adequate range of motion and mobility.
  • Regular near acuity with clarity of vision at 20 inches or less. 
  • Regular hearing and the ability to perceive the nature of sounds.
  • Regular speaking and the ability to express and exchange ideas by means of language expected.
  • Ability to read, record, or type data accurately.
  • Working long hours between breaks or meals.
  • Ability to work under and handle stress in an appropriate manner.
  • Ability to handle exposure to high, medium, or low noise intensity.
  • Constant contact with co-workers.
  • Ability to work with people of all ages.
  • Exposure to fluctuations in temperatures and outdoor conditions.

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