Entomologist

Position:
Entomologist (DLF - BV),

Location:

Touchet, Washington, USA

Business Unit: DLF Research & Development (DLF North America)

Job Family: R&D

The Entomologist contributes to the company’s research and development efforts by leading innovative projects related to insect and nematode resistance in plants. This position applies scientific expertise in entomology, crop improvement, and pest management to develop, test, and refine methods for evaluating pest resistance and plant response. The role is a blend of hands‑on field and greenhouse work, experimental design, and collaboration across R&D teams to advance the company’s genetic pest resistance initiatives.

The Entomologist will design and lead research efforts focused on improving genetic pest resistance in crops. This includes developing and validating protocols for pest resistance screening, conducting field and controlled‑environment studies, and analyzing data to inform breeding and product development. This role combines technical expertise with strong leadership and project‑management skills to drive innovation and support the company’s long‑term research goals.

• Lead the design, execution, and evaluation of experiments related to genetic pest resistance in crops.
• Develop and implement new protocols and testing methods for screening plants against key insect and nematode pests.
• Conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory research to assess plant‑pest interactions and resistance mechanisms.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data, and prepare clear reports and recommendations for research and breeding teams.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional R&D staff, including entomologists, pathologists, geneticists, and breeders, to integrate findings into broader product development pipelines.
• Monitor field plots and greenhouse experiments, making detailed observations on pest behavior, plant health, and treatment efficacy.
• Participate in or lead field activities such as planting, sampling, and data collection alongside research and field crews.
• Stay current on advancements in entomology, nematology, and pest‑resistant crop research; recommend innovative approaches and technologies to enhance research outcomes.
• Contribute to strategic planning, project design, and workload prioritization within the R&D team.
• Ensure compliance with company safety procedures and research protocols.
• Assist with alfalfa breeding projects related to drought and salt tolerance.
• Assist with various duties as needed.

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in Entomology, Crop Science (with focus on Entomology), or a related field.
• Two to five years of experience in field or greenhouse research, crop improvement, pest management, or applied entomology.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and conducting experiments and analyzing biological or agronomic data.
• Experience in project leadership, research planning, and team coordination.
• Strong foundation in entomology, nematology, and plant‑insect interaction research.
• Working knowledge of experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• Ability to innovate and develop new methodologies for pest resistance testing.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across scientific disciplines.
• Competency in Microsoft Office, data management tools, and other relevant research software.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and controlled‑environment settings.

• Work is performed in both field and laboratory settings, often under variable weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform tasks that involve bending, standing, and walking for extended periods.
• May involve operating small field or laboratory equipment.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required for certain activities.

DLF USA Inc. offers a compensation plan that includes a salary range of $80,000‑$85,000 per year (depending on experience), benefits that include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, bonus available, retirement savings plan with company contribution, paid holidays, vacation, and personal…