Entomology and Macro Photography

• Hours: ~20 total hours, flexible schedule
• Timeline: March–May
• Location: On-site at our farm (outdoor fieldwork)

About the Role

We are seeking a student or graduate in entomology (or a closely related field) to help us identify, document, and share information about insect life on our urban farm. This short-term, flexible position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on fieldwork, insect identification, photography, and communicating their findings via blogs and Instagram.

As we establish a new pollinator strip with USDA funds, your work will help us correctly identify the insects present (both in this pollinator strip and on the farm in general) and create engaging educational content for our blog, Instagram, educational materials and greeting cards. This role may also be structured to support a thesis or academic project, if desired.

Responsibilities

• Identify insects found on the farm, with a focus on pollinators and beneficial predators.
• Photograph insects up close using a macro lens, with image quality suitable for:
• • Educational materials
  • Blog and social media posts
  • Print materials (e.g., greeting cards)
• Provide accurate species- or genus-level identification where possible
• Write short, accessible facts and descriptions about insects, including:
• • Ecological roles
  • Interesting or fun facts
  • Conservation relevance
  • Contribute written content for our blog and Instagram

Qualifications

• Currently studying entomology or holding a degree in entomology (or closely related field)
• Strong insect identification skills
• Comfortable working outdoors on a farm
• Interest in pollinators, ecology, and conservation
• Must have their own macro lens for close-up insect photography (we do not provide photography equipment)
• Ability to write clearly for a general (non-academic) audience

Nice to Have

• Experience with pollinator surveys or field research
• Familiarity with regional insect species
• Experience with science communication, blogging, or social media
• Interest in using field observations as part of a thesis or research project

Use of Photos & Content

By applying for this position, applicants acknowledge that photographs and written content created as part of this role may be used by the farm for educational materials, blog posts, social media, and printed products (including greeting cards).

The photographer/writer retains the right to use their photos and written work in personal portfolios, academic materials, and for non-commercial self-promotion, with appropriate credit to the farm where applicable.

Photo credit will be provided by the farm where feasible.

Schedule & Compensation

• Approximately 20 hours total over March–May
• Highly flexible scheduling
• Compensation: $25/hr

How to Apply

Please send:

• A brief description of your background or coursework in entomology
• Any relevant experience (fieldwork, insect ID, photography, writing, or research)
• Sample insect photographs and/or writing samples (if available)