Pest Control Worker

Your Fit

Income

$45K

Preparation

Some

Growth

3.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Pest Control Worker?

A Pest Control Worker, also known as an Exterminator, specializes in identifying, managing, and eliminating pests such as insects, rodents, and other unwelcome creatures. They ensure homes, businesses, and outdoor areas are free from infestations and safe for occupancy.

Sample job titles:

Exterminator, Pest Control Technician (Pest Control Tech), Pest Technician, Residential Pest Control Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Pest Control Worker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Pest Control Worker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$32K per year	$37K per year	$45K per year	$49K per year	$61K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $4.77K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Pest Control Worker do?

Work environment

Pest Control Workers often work in a variety of settings, including residential homes, commercial properties, and outdoor environments. The job involves travel to client sites and may require work in confined spaces, at heights, and exposure to chemicals.

Quick task list

Inspects properties for signs of pests.
Identifies types of pests and decides on treatment methods.
Applies chemical treatments safely to eliminate infestations.
Advises clients on how to prevent future infestations.
Maintains records of treatments and inspections.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Pest Control: Focusing on homes and living spaces, dealing with common household pests.
Commercial Pest Control: Working in businesses and commercial properties, managing larger-scale infestations.
Termite Control: Specializing in the detection and eradication of termites.
Wildlife Removal: Focusing on the humane capture and relocation of wildlife.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Using a combination of methods for environmentally friendly pest control.

Description

Pest Control Workers play a crucial role in maintaining public health and safety by controlling pests that can cause damage and spread diseases. Their job requires them to assess the extent of infestations and determine the best course of action, which may include chemical, biological, or mechanical pest control methods.

The work demands attention to detail, as accurate identification of pests is essential for effective control. Pest Control Workers need to be knowledgeable about various chemicals and their safe application, adhering to regulatory standards. They must also be skilled in customer service, as they often guide and reassure clients throughout the pest control process.

Pest Control is a field that requires continuous learning due to evolving pest resistance and changes in control methods and regulations. Workers in this field often work independently and must be self-motivated and reliable. The occupation can be challenging but also rewarding, as it directly impacts the improvement of living and working environments.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Providing tangible solutions to pest problems and improving clients' living conditions.
The variety and challenge of different infestation cases.
Opportunities for independent work and flexible schedules.

You might make a good Pest Control Worker if you are...

Detail-oriented, with the ability to identify different types of pests.
Comfortable with the use of tools and chemicals for pest control.
Good at problem-solving and decision-making.
Able to communicate effectively with clients.
Comfortable working in various physical environments, including tight spaces.

Pros:

High demand for services in both residential and commercial sectors.
Variety of work environments and tasks.
Potential for self-employment or starting a business.

Cons:

Exposure to chemicals and potential health risks.
Physically demanding work, including working in uncomfortable environments.
Irregular hours, with potential for emergency calls.

How to become a Pest Control Worker

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Most of the training is on-the-job, and some states require licensing which involves passing an exam and undergoing training.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology and Chemistry to understand pest behavior and safe chemical use.
Business Studies for those interested in running their own pest control business.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering in community clean-up or environmental conservation projects.
Joining science clubs or participating in science fairs.

Preparation after high school

Acquiring a pest control license, which may involve specific training and passing an exam.
Seeking apprenticeship or entry-level positions with pest control companies for hands-on experience.
Attending workshops or courses on safe pesticide application and pest management.

More resources

National Pest Management Association (NPMA) - Provides education, certification, and resources for pest management professionals.
Entomological Society of America (ESA) - Offers resources and certification for those specializing in entomology, the study of insects.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Important for understanding safety regulations in handling chemicals.
Pest Control Technology (PCT) - Offers news, training, and information on the latest trends in the pest control industry.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.