The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Pest Control Workers. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO PEST CONTROL MANAGEMENT DIRECTORY PAGES
Hawaiʻi
WHAT PEST CONTROL WORKERS DO
Pest control workers remove unwanted pests, such as roaches, rats, ants, bedbugs, mosquitoes, ticks, and termites that infest buildings and surrounding areas.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $39,910
Top 5 States
1. Washington
$49,010
2. Massachusetts
$47,460
3. Texas
$45,450
4. Nevada
$45,020
5. Ohio
$44,960
Bottom 5 States
50. Idaho
$31,380
49. Kansas
$32,090
48. West Virginia
$32,120
47. Oklahoma
$32,400
46. South Carolina
$33,000
STEPS TO BECOME A PEST CONTROL WORKER
Pest control workers often get trained on the job when they start as technicians. They learn about different areas such as rodent control, termite control, and fumigation. They also are trained in pesticide use and safety. Training usually takes less than 3 months. Because pest control methods change, workers often attend continuing education classes to stay current on the latest practices.
Apprenticeship opportunities are also available to enter the pest management field.
Pest management is not typically offered at trade schools. Community colleges that have agriculture programs often include pest management as a topic in a course.
Pest control workers must be licensed in most states. Additional requirements vary by state.
Option 1: On-the-Job Training
This is the most common way to learn about pest control and to get the appropriate training.
Option 2: Apprenticeship
Option 3: Learn Skills in Agriculture Program
Pest management is sometimes included in agricultural programs at community colleges.
Get Licensed
Licensure can be obtained after being trained in pest control and passing an exam.
QUALITIES OF PEST CONTROL WORKERS
Detail Oriented
Pest control workers need to be able to follow instructions carefully in order to prevent harm to residents, pets, the environment, and themselves.
Customer- Service Skills
Pest control workers should be friendly and polite when they interact with customers at their homes or businesses.
Bookkeeping Skills
Pest control workers must keep accurate records of the hours they work, chemicals they use, and payments they collect. Self-employed workers, in particular, need these skills in order to run their business.
Physical Stamina
Pest control workers may spend hours on their feet, often crouching, kneeling, and crawling. They also must be able to withstand uncomfortable conditions, such as heat when they climb into attics in the summertime and cold when they enter crawl spaces during winter.