My Typical Day

My typical workday as a pest control technician starts between 8am and 9am. I clock in on our time tracking app and I look at my list of appointments for the day, see what pest problems I will need to solve, and then check my work van to make sure I have all the necessary products, tools, and equipment. If I need more supplies I first drive to our company headquarters to pick up what I’ll need. If I already have everything I need, I call my first customer to tell them that I’m on the way and my expected arrival time.

When I arrive at their home, I discuss the nature of the pest problem with them. I want to find out how long the problem has been going on, where they see the pests, and other things of this nature that will help me gain an understanding of their issue so that I can suggest and perform a treatment that will solve the problem quickly and permanently. My appointments consist of fixing a variety of pest problems including rodents, insects, and wildlife. When I finish my first appointment I call my next one and so on.

Pros

The best part of this job is that most customers see my arrival as the arrival of some sort of superhero. Most people are grossed out by pests infiltrating the sanctity of their home and living space and some are deeply traumatized. I get to be the hero who comes to save them from their pest nightmare, protect their home, and make them feel safe and at peace again. I meet a lot of interesting people from all walks of life. I get to see different parts of my city and all sorts of homes. It is very satisfying to successfully problem solve and fix an issue that homeowners or other companies have attempted, unsuccessfully, to fix. Sometimes it has plagued them for years and I am the one to finally find the solution. Pest control work is universal and pest control companies in most cities are almost always looking to hire new people – so, I could really relocate anywhere I wanted and have a skill that is very employable.

The biggest pro I discovered recently is that pest control is definitely a recession-proof and pandemic-proof profession. We are an essential service and regardless of what happens in the world, I will always have a reliable job. Pests certainly never take time off! While many of my friends in other industries were laid off and struggling last year, I was able to take care of myself and thrive.

Cons

Some people can be grossed out by bugs or dirty conditions. If a person is squeamish then this type of work might not be for them.

Advice to aspiring Pest Control Technicians

To thrive as a pest control technician you should be someone who enjoys customer service, is empathetic and enjoys helping people, and also is someone who enjoys challenges and problem-solving.

To be eligible to work as a pest control technician, most companies require you to be a capable driver and be fully licensed. As well, you need to obtain a pest control technician applicator license (requirements vary based on your region) but generally involves studying the practical and safety materials and passing the license exam.

To get a job at a pest control company I would suggest researching the companies in your region and finding one with the mission and values you align with. You can search local job listings, of course, but most pest control companies are often looking for new technicians for immediate or future openings (especially in the busy season May – September) so there may not even be a job listing. Write a compelling cover letter or email to the companies you want to work for and try to connect with the person in charge of interviewing and hiring new staff.

Avery Addison
Pest Control Technician
Addison Pest Contol

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