Production Entomologist
XSIT has an exciting opportunity for a Production Entomologist to join our team at the facility in Citrusdal. This is a permanent position.
Key Responsibilities:
Trial Design and Implementation:
- Plan, execute and analyse trials to test new approaches or resolve production issues.
- Ensure proper experimental design, data collection and interpretation.
- Integrate successful outcomes into standard operations.
Culture Health and Performance Analysis:
- Assess insect health, lifecycle performance and productivity across all stages.
- Identify root causes of variability, losses or declining performance.
- Recommend corrective and preventative measures.
SIT and Virus Process Optimization:
- Identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks in rearing systems.
- Implement improvements to optimise yield, consistency and cost efficiency.
- Support scale-up of optimised processes into production.
Data analysis and reporting:
- Analyse biological and production data to identify trends and risks.
- Develop reports, dashboards and recommendations for stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate and meaningful records for traceabilityn.
Innovation and Continuous Improvement:
- Drive innovation initiatives to enhance rearing systems and biological outputs.
- Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Colony Management and Genetics:
- Monitor colony health, genetic stability and potential inbreeding effects.
- Implement strategies for colony refreshment or strain improvement.
- Maintain reference colonies and experimental lines.
Biological Advisory and support:
- In conjunction with the Research Entomologist and other key stakeholders, provide scientific guidance to production and management teams.
- Translate research findings into practical recommendations for operations.
- Support decision making with evidence-based insights.
Minimum Requirements:
- Hons/Msc in Entomology and Microbiology or a related scientific field (preferred),
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in insect rearing, biological production, laboratory, or research environments.
- Computer literate, with proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
- Demonstrates good report writing and data analysis skills.
- Understanding and application of GLP.
- Ability to use laboratory equipment, including microscopes.
- Valid driver’s licence.
Competencies & Attributes:
- Strong problem-solving and analytical ability.
- Practical, hands-on approach.
- Ability to work in highly controlled, biologically sensitive environment.
- Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- High attention to safety, hygiene, and compliance.
- Continuous improvement and accountability mindset.
XSIT (Pty) Ltd is an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, religion, colour, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, or any other status or condition protected by law.
Remuneration for the position will be discussed with candidates invited to an interview.