Production Team Member

Location: Virginia Beach, VA  23457

Employment Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Pay Rate: $19/hour starting

Environment: Fast-paced, hot, humid, dusty farm environment

The Bug Company is a leader in the pet industry, specializing in the farming and production of live insects for reptile and exotic pet owners nationwide.

The Production Team Member role is responsible for the daily care, handling, production, and quality control of live crickets  We are looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented individual to join our dynamic team in this hands-on role. This position offers the opportunity to work closely with insects, contributing to their care, breeding, and general welfare.  This position plays a critical role in maintaining product quality and ensuring production goals are achieved safely and consistently. 

• Assist in the daily production and care of live insect colonies
• Perform insect husbandry tasks according to established procedures
• Handle live insects safely and appropriately throughout production processes
• Follow production schedules and standardized work instructions
• Operate basic equipment: tape guns, packaging tools, and materials safely and efficiently
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary work areas
• Monitor inventory levels and report concerns to leadership
• Meet daily production goals while maintaining quality standards
• Support team members in achieving department objectives
• Report safety concerns, equipment issues, or process deviations immediately

Safety is a core expectation of this role, not an afterthought.

Employees are expected to:

• Follow all production, handling, and workplace safety procedures
• Maintain awareness of surroundings in a fast-paced production environment
• Use equipment, tools, and materials properly at all times
• Immediately report unsafe conditions or hazards
• Support a clean and organized workplace to reduce risks and maintain product quality
• Follow biosecurity and husbandry protocols as required

We are committed to maintaining a workplace where safety, consistency, and accountability are part of everyday operations.

Experience is helpful but not required. Candidates with backgrounds in the following areas may be successful:

• Animal care or husbandry
• Greenhouse or gardening operations
• Agricultural production
• Manufacturing or production environments
• Assembly line work
• Warehouse operations
• General manual labor

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Standing, bending, walking, and repetitive motion throughout the shift
• Ability to work with urgency while maintaining quality standards
• Comfort working in hot, humid, and dusty conditions
• Ability to safely handle and work directly with live insects

Tuesday – Saturday 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM

(Hours will fluctuate based on production schedules, shipping schedules, and company needs.

We offer competitive pay to attract reliable, safety-minded, long-term team members (according to company policy):

• $19/hour starting rate
• Paid vacation
• Medical benefits
• 401(k) with company match

1. Complete our application questionnaire today
2. Phone screening (typically same day)
3. In-person interview scheduled within the same week for qualified candidates
4. Background and reference checks required prior to offer

The Bug Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

At-will employment applies to all positions.