Education and training requirements for Pest control workersA high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum qualification for most pest control jobs. Although a college degree is not required, almost half of all pest control workers have either attended college or earned a degree. Pest control workers must have basic skills in math, chemistry, and writing, either learned at school or through employer. Because of the extensive interaction that pest control workers have with their customers, employers prefer to hire people who have good communication and interpersonal skills. In addition, most pest control companies require their employees to have a good driving record. Pest control workers must be in good health because of the physical demands of the job, and they also must be able to withstand extreme conditions — such as the heat of climbing into an attic in the summertime or the chill of sliding into a crawlspace during winter. Both Federal and State laws regulate pest control workers. These laws require them to be certified through training and examination, for which most pest control firms help their employees prepare. Workers may receive both formal classroom and on-the-job training, but they also must study on their own. Because the pest control industry is constantly changing, workers must attend continuing education classes to maintain their certification. Requirements for pest control workers vary by State. Pest control workers usually begin their careers as apprentice technicians. Before performing any pest control services, apprentices must attend general training in pesticide safety and use. In addition, they must train in each pest control category in which they wish to practice. Categories may include general pest control, rodent control, termite control, fumigation, and ornamental and turf control. Training usually involves spending 10 hours in the classroom and 60 hours on the job for each category. After completing the required training, apprentices can provide supervised pest control services. To be eligible to become applicators, technicians must have a combination of experience and education and pass a test. This requirement is sometimes waived for individuals who have either a college degree in biological sciences or extensive related work experience. To become certified as applicators, technicians must pass an additional set of category exams. Depending on the State, applicators must attend additional classes every 1 to 6 years to be recertified. Applicators with several years of experience often become supervisors. To qualify as a pest control supervisor, applicators may have to pass State-administered exams and have experience in the industry, usually a minimum of 2 years. More information on Pest control workers from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Pest control workers occupation Number of Pest control workers in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Pest control workers Working conditions for Pest control workers Significant points for Pest control workers Training requirements for Pest control workers Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |