Entomology Research Assistant - Crookston, MN

About the Job

Job classification: Civil Service

Job code: 8351EG

Hourly rate: $24.65

Projected start date/end date: October 26, 2026 - December 31, 2026

Name of supervisor: Ian MacRae

Working title: Research Assistant

Number of hours/week: 14.5 hours per week (36.25% time)

Location: Northwest Research and Outreach Center, Crookston, MN

This is temporary posted civil service position. The position is open as early as mid-October 2026 and will continue through to the end of fall semester. Working hours may be adjusted due to seasonal demands, weather conditions, and special events.

This position has the responsibility of assisting in Entomology laboratory research trials at the UMN Northwest Research and Outreach Center in Crookston, MN. The position is heavily weighted to laboratory and greenhouse tasks although some field work and local travel may occur. Other tasks may be assigned as needed.

Job Duties / Tasks

• Preparing bioassays measuring insecticide resistance in field colonies
• Collecting, entering and preliminary data analyses of insect bioassays
• Maintenance, recording and oversight of insect laboratory colonies, including greenhouse plant production, insect colony planning, maintenance and monitoring
• Coordination and maintenance of a two-state insect trapping network, logistics and maintenance of traps, and sorting and limited identification of trapped insects
• Assist in training of undergraduate workers
• Additional tasks as needed

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least four years
• Current driver's license (must be 18+ to drive University vehicles)
• Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions, observational skills
• Ability to work and provide oversight in a team environment and/or work independently
• Ability to work in a wide range of indoor/outdoor conditions including heat, humidity, wind, and rain
• Ability to sit, kneel, stand, and bend frequently and lift 10-50 pounds repeatedly
• Candidates must be willing to travel to offsite trapping sites occasionally
• Experience in establishing and maintaining insect colonies
• Experience in sorting insect trap catch material

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $24.65 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nations most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.