Entomologist

Job Description

Job Description

Automated High-Throughput Testing Specialist Entomology Platform

Job Description

This role supports a high-throughput entomology testing platform that integrates biological laboratory work with automation and technology-enabled workflows. You will perform routine biological assays, operate automated and semi-automated laboratory equipment, and help scale and improve biological testing processes. The position is ideal for someone with a foundational understanding of biology who enjoys hands-on work, is technically curious, and is eager to learn how automation enhances the consistency, efficiency, and throughput of research.

Responsibilities

• Support automated and high-throughput insect bioassay workflows, including preparation, setup, execution, scoring, and data capture.
• Operate laboratory automation systems and equipment by following established procedures and standard operating protocols.
• Learn and adopt new automation technologies, workflows, and software tools to support evolving laboratory needs.
• Prepare solutions, media, and artificial diets used in insect bioassays according to defined recipes and quality standards.
• Set up, maintain, and score insect bioassays accurately and consistently to ensure reliable experimental outcomes.
• Care for plants in controlled-environment growth chambers and greenhouse settings to support bioassay and research activities.
• Perform accurate data entry and maintain detailed experimental records, ensuring data integrity and traceability.
• Assist with routine equipment operation, cleaning, basic troubleshooting, and preventive upkeep to minimize downtime.
• Maintain organized laboratory and controlled-environment workspaces, including proper storage and labeling of materials.
• Identify workflow issues or inefficiencies and collaborate with the team to improve efficiency, repeatability, and reliability.
• Collaborate effectively with scientists, automation specialists, and technical team members in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary research environment.
• Work both independently and as part of a team to complete daily tasks, meet project timelines, and support shared laboratory goals.

Essential Skills

• Bachelors degree in biology, biotechnology, entomology, plant science, agricultural science, engineering technology, automation, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of biological principles and standard laboratory practices.
• Comfort working with technology and automated equipment, or a strong willingness and aptitude to learn these systems.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to consistently follow standardized procedures and protocols.
• Ability to learn new processes, equipment, and software tools used in automated and high-throughput laboratories.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and workflows.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for documenting work and collaborating with team members.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a diverse, multidisciplinary team.
• Interest in and comfort with hands-on work involving biological materials and laboratory equipment.
• Ability to reliably execute repeatable processes and recognize when procedures or equipment are not operating correctly.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in a biological or agricultural laboratory, greenhouse, or controlled-environment setting.
• Exposure to laboratory automation, robotics, liquid handling systems, automated imaging, high-throughput screening, or other automated workflows.
• Experience with insect bioassays, entomology, plant biology, or agricultural biotechnology.
• Experience working with structured data collection tools or laboratory information systems.
• Interest in troubleshooting equipment and continuously improving laboratory processes and workflows.
• Curiosity about how automation can enhance laboratory efficiency, consistency, and scalability.
• Ability to learn from scientists, automation specialists, and other technical team members in a collaborative environment.
• Comfort thriving in a fast-moving research setting where priorities and workflows may evolve.

This is a Contract position based out of Chesterfield, MO.

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $30.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a Contract position based out of Chesterfield, MO.

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 18, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Chesterfield,MO.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.