Entomologists work both in the field and in the laboratory. They are mainly concerned with the life cycle of insects, their body processes, and group behavior. Recently, entomologists have been working on insect control methods that require the minimal use of toxic pesticides. Instead of using deadly poisons, they have discovered methods to sterilize and trap insects before they can harm crops and livestock. They have also been successful in introducing predator insects that eat the plant-threatening pests, but have no interest in the host crop. They are also helping agronomists and plant scientists develop crops that are more insect resistant. Entomologists often work closely with other agricultural scientists, such as botanists, veterinarians, and plant pathologists, to help produce higher-yielding crops and healthier livestock.
RELATED PROFESSIONS
- Agronomist
- Botanist
- Plant Pathologist
- Horticulturist
- Chemist Microbiologist
- Pest Control Specialist
- Pest Exterminator
The pursuit of a career in entomology requires an advanced degree. Students holding a bachelor of science degree in entomology, zoology, or biology can work as agricultural pest control specialists, pest exterminators, or entomology assistants. Those interested in pursuing a career as a professional entomologist must hold a master's or Ph.D. degree because most entomologists work as applied researchers and teachers in an academic setting where advanced degrees are required. Core courses at the undergraduate level include biology, botany, chemistry, zoology, and physics. There are several universities offering an advanced degree in entomology.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION
There are no special certifications for this profession.
SETTING
Most entomologists are affiliated with a college or university so they spend most of their time on laboratory work, administrative duties, and teaching. Working hours are flexible and depend mostly upon the nature of the research and teaching schedule, but like most academics, entomologists can expect to put in more than 40 hours per week. Entomologists should enjoy working outdoors in all types of climates and weather conditions. Research interests often permit entomologists to travel throughout the world. Many entomologists conduct field research in the rain forests of South America, Africa, and Indonesia, where the majority of insect species are located. They must also travel to agricultural areas where experiments with pest-resistant plant strains and predator insects are taking place. Other entomologists involved in pest control spend a substantial amount of time outdoors working with chemicals and other potentially dangerous substances.
EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS AND MAJOR EMPLOYERS
Colleges and universities employ the majority of professional entomologists, although there are also job opportunities with the federal and state governments and private industry. In the federal government entomologists work for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Department of the Interior, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Entomologists also work in every state agricultural agency. In private industry entomologists work for seed companies, pharmaceutical firms, and as agricultural consultants. Some entomologists form their own research and pest control companies.
With a bachelor's degree, entomologists can find employment as food inspectors, biological technicians, agricultural sales representatives, and similar professions. In order to conduct research and teach, an advanced degree with specialized training is required. Entomologists work in botany, zoology, and agricultural science departments of colleges and universities throughout the country, as well as doing direct research in government agencies and private industry. The best employment opportunities in academia are in large universities, particularly at state land grant institutions, where substantial funds support research and purchase modem laboratory equipment.
The employment outlook for entomologists is very good because many problems with insect control are still unresolved. Only a small number of entomologists enter the field each year, so job opportunities, particularly in government agencies and private industry, are quite good. There is always sharp competition for academic positions, and the recent funding cuts in higher education will probably shrink the already limited number of available tenured professorships.
SALARY STATISTICS
Entomologists entering the field with a bachelor's degree can expect to earn between $18,000 and $24,000 per year as a pest control or biological technician. Entry-level entomologists in the federal government holding a bachelor's degree can expect to earn between $22,717 and $24,231, depending upon experience. Job seekers with a master's degree will earn between $27,789 and $29,641, while those with a Ph.D. can expect a salary of $33,623 to $35,865. According to the American Association of University Professors, the average starting salary for an agribusiness professor in 1992 was $35,092. The average salary for a tenured professor was $54,209, while part-time instructors earned about $27,000. See "Tips for Job Hunters" for a complete description of federal salaries and benefits.
SOURCES OF FURTHER INFORMATION
- American Entomology Society 1900 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103
- American Institute of Biological Sciences 1401 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22209
