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Insect Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Beneficial Insectary

Site Manager

Bella Vista, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Manage and coordinate daily work activities of site staff involved in insect and mite production ... Experience with scheduling, performance management, and cross-training in a fast-paced, hands-on ...

Sac and Fox Tribe of Iowa

Pest Control Trainer

Tama, IA · On-site

$19.12 - $25.23/hr

Category 7D - Community Insect Management * Category 7E - Wood Preservatives * Category 8 - Public Health Pest Control * Minimum of 3 years as a practicing licensed exterminator * Minimum of 2 years ...

Meskwaki Nation

Pest Control Trainer

Tama, IA

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Category 7D - Community Insect Management * Category 7E - Wood Preservatives * Category 8 - Public Health Pest Control * Minimum of 3 years as a practicing licensed exterminator * Minimum of 2 years ...

AgSource

Crop Scout - Seasonal

Antigo, WI · On-site

No experience necessary; we provide all of the training. In this position you will learn how to identify weed, insect, and disease pressures that can harm crops. We walk fields and document pests to ...

MosquitoNix

Lead Technician and Installer

Spartanburg, SC · On-site

$48K - $52K/yr

Training & development Protect Outdoor Lifestyles™ by providing the highest quality service to ... We didn't invent Insect Control, but we did develop the Insect Misting System and Back Yard ...

State of Nevada (NV)

FORESTER 3

Carson City, NV · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

... forest insect and disease identification and treatment, and vegetation management at a level ... and conduct training activities in fire prevention and natural resource management programs.

MosquitoNix

MosquitoNix Service Manager

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Comprehensive training programs as the industry leader Why MosquitoNix ® ? * Founded in 2003, is the pioneer in the Mosquito Control Industry. We didn't invent Insect Control, but we did develop the ...

The Bug Company

Shipping Bulk Team Member

Andover, MN · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Accurately assemble and package live insect orders * Label shipments with correct information ... Operate basic warehouse equipment (training provided) * Meet daily shipping targets with the team

The Bug Company

Shipping Specialist

Hellertown, PA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Accurately assemble and package live insect orders * Label shipments with correct information ... Operate basic warehouse equipment (training provided) * Meet daily shipping targets with the team

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Insect Trainer information

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$11

$27

$48

How much do insect trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for insect trainer in the United States is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Insect Trainers?

Insect Trainers are professionals who specialize in conditioning and guiding the behavior of insects, typically for research, educational demonstrations, or entertainment purposes. They use various methods such as positive reinforcement, environmental cues, and controlled stimuli to encourage insects to perform specific tasks or behaviors. While the concept may sound unusual, insect training has applications in scientific studies, pest management research, and even art installations. Insect Trainers need a strong understanding of entomology and animal behavior to effectively work with different species. This field is niche but offers unique opportunities for those interested in both insects and behavioral science.

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

To thrive as an Insect Trainer, you need a background in entomology, animal behavior, and basic biology, often supported by relevant scientific education or experience. Proficiency in using observation tools, controlled environments, and data recording systems is typically required. Patience, attention to detail, and strong observational skills help you understand and work with insect responses effectively. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the well-being of the insects, achieving training objectives, and advancing research or practical applications.

What is the difference between Insect Trainer vs Entomologist?

AspectInsect TrainerEntomologist
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of insects, often with certifications in animal training or pest controlAdvanced degree (bachelor's or higher) in entomology or related field
Work EnvironmentZoos, insectariums, entertainment shows, pest control companiesResearch labs, universities, government agencies, fieldwork
Industry UsageEntertainment, education, pest managementScientific research, academia, pest management policy

Insect Trainers focus on training insects for entertainment, education, or pest control, often requiring certifications in animal handling. Entomologists conduct scientific research, requiring advanced degrees, and work primarily in research or academic settings. While both work with insects, their roles differ significantly in purpose, environment, and credentials.

What are some common challenges faced by Insect Trainers when working with different species?

Insect Trainers often encounter challenges related to the varied behavioral patterns and learning abilities of different insect species. Each species may respond differently to training methods, requiring trainers to adapt their techniques and exercise patience. Additionally, maintaining a controlled environment to ensure the well-being of the insects while training them can be demanding. Collaboration with entomologists and other specialists is often essential to address these challenges effectively and to develop innovative training approaches tailored to each species.
Infographic showing various Insect Trainer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,233 per year, or $27 per hour.
Site Manager

Site Manager

Beneficial Insectary

Bella Vista, CA • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time, Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

Full-time Redding, CA Description Position Summary

The Site Manager oversees daily operations at the insect production site, ensuring efficient workflows, high product quality, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards. This role provides hands-on leadership to production staff engaged in the rearing, processing, and packaging of beneficial insects and mites used in biological pest control. The Site Manager coordinates with Operations and Quality teams to meet production goals, maintain facility readiness, and ensure consistent communication across shifts.

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Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Manage and coordinate daily work activities of site staff involved in insect and mite production, processing, and facility maintenance.
  • Plan and assign work to optimize productivity, quality, and resource utilization.
  • Monitor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, sanitation) to maintain optimal production outcomes.
  • Train employees in production techniques, safety protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Inspect work areas and equipment for compliance with safety, quality, and sanitation standards.
  • Maintain accurate records of inventory, production output, labor, and materials.
  • Collaborate with Quality Assurance and R&D teams to identify and resolve production or product-quality issues.
  • Participate in hiring, onboarding, and performance evaluations for site employees.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, state and federal labor regulations, and biosecurity requirements.
  • Assist with scheduling, timekeeping, and reporting hours worked to Payroll and HR.
  • Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.


Requirements:

Requirements

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

  • Associate degree in Agriculture, Biology, Business, or a related field preferred or equivalent education/experience combo
  • Minimum of 2 years of direct supervisory experience overseeing at least 20+ employees in a production, agricultural, or manufacturing environment.
  • 3–5 years of experience in agricultural production, greenhouse operations, insectary, or similar controlled-environment facility preferred
  • Experience with scheduling, performance management, and cross-training in a fast-paced, hands-on setting
  • Familiarity with Cal/OSHA safety standards and agricultural labor regulations preferred

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
  • Working knowledge of agricultural or biological production practices.
  • Ability to identify operational issues and implement practical solutions.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word) and production recordkeeping.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for extended periods, and work in warm, humid environments typical of insect rearing facilities.

Work Environment

  • Work is performed in a controlled agricultural production facility with exposure to live insects, biological materials, and varying temperatures and humidity.
  • May require weekend, holiday, or early/late shift work to maintain live organisms.