People say that what they love the most about their home is who they share it with. Exterminators ensure that this haven remains intact by eliminating intruders such as termites, roaches, mice, mosquitoes, wasps, spiders, or any other animals that can destroy the foundation of a building, become a nuisan... Continue Reading
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What are the typical responsibilities of an Exterminator?
An Exterminator would typically need to:
Exterminators are required to work inside houses and commercial buildings such as shops, kitchens, factories and warehouses or outside in any weather conditions.Travel to various worksites, depending upon the clientele, is needed.
You may need to wear standard personal protective gear, including respirators, gloves, and goggles, or as required for specific situations. Carefully follow the safety instructions for the pesticides and equipment you use.
Typically, Exterminators work in full-time jobs, Monday to Friday and on weekends and evenings if the situation demands.
You may have more flexibility in setting your schedule if you freelance or launch your own business.
Finding a new job might seem challenging. Exterminators can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using
job search platforms, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.
Exterminators are generally employed by:
Professional associations and organisations, such as the International Organisation for Biological and Integrated Control (IOBC), are crucial for Exterminators interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.
Since it is typically not possible to gain work experience in pest control or a related field without training on the job, one way to prepare for entry-level roles is to complete an academic program in pest control offered by accredited training or technical centres, community colleges or extension programs at university.
Keep in mind that you will receive only classroom instruction in rodent control, termite control, pesticide use and safety, and fumigation. Developing an understanding of the science and biology of pests will help you learn to evaluate a situation and determine the appropriate treatment once you begin working.
You will gain practical exposure and skills in pest control when you are formally employed and receive training on the job.
However, you may take up part-time work in other areas to build communication, interpersonal and other transferable skills while also building your sense of responsibility and willingness to learn. Reading about the duties and job shadowing professionals working as Exterminators also demonstrate your commitment when submitting applications to course providers and prospective employers.
Ensure that you stay physically fit and take a booster shot of antitetanus vaccination.
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent covering biology and zoology is adequate for aspiring Exterminators.
Although employers do not stress post-secondary education, you could gain a competitive edge in the job market by acquiring an associate degree or gaining additional skills through a certificate course involving customer service & management.
A diploma in agrochemical & pesticide management through a vocational or a community college demonstrates your competence and expertise in the field.
You must fulfil the licensing requirements of the area where you live and work. You will need to complete an approved training program, pass the relevant exam, and chalk up the necessary hours of work experience under a licensed supervisor to qualify for your local license. Some employers provide you with formal instruction and training on the job to help you work towards your license or a certification.
You may also choose to acquire certification in specialised areas, such as termite control and fumigation.
As a licensed and certified pesticide applicator, you can make careful use of certain chemical pesticides, typically used by industry but not accessible to the general public on account of their toxicity.
To renew your license or certification, you will need to pursue continued professional development (CPD) courses or engage in continued education (CE).
Keep in mind that candidates seeking jobs as Exterminators must be at least 18 years of age and may need to clear a criminal background check.
A valid driver’s license obtained per regional requirements and a driving record check may be necessary if employers expect you to commute between different work locations.
As legally required, Exterminators working under an organisation must receive full liability insurance, and self-employed workers acquire it themselves.
Performance, experience, and the acquisition of skills drive the career progression of Exterminators from pest control technicians to Supervisors. Employees with consistently high performance levels may be eligible for promotion every two to three years.
You may further your career by specialising in rodent or termite control or fumigation. Experience may qualify you to take up supervisory roles.
With adequate and relevant experience, you may also choose to launch your own pest management company.
Candidates with the necessary training, license, certification, and experience handling pesticides and placing traps have the best job prospects as an Exterminator.
Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Exterminator build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning or professional activity. Since the methods involved in pest control change with time, these sessions increment your knowledge and expertise.
Since pest control protocols may depend upon the employer and the topography, the skills gained through initial and ongoing training on the job may also differ. You would typically start work as a technician and receive general training in the safe use of pesticides and formal technical training from your employer. Completing the training period, typically three months, qualifies you to work as an Exterminator and may earn you certification and enhanced employability.
Types of Pests
Pests are specific to areas. Rural regions may be infested with rodents, rabbits, moles, foxes, and insects in stored products. Urban dwellings may become subject to rodents and may need measures to keep birds out. However, there are several other pest varieties, most commonly insects, such as woodworm, beetles, wasps, ants, cockroaches, flies, lice, fleas and bedbugs, and vertebrates, such as rats, mice, foxes, grey squirrels, rabbits, pigeons and seagulls.
Specialisation
Exterminators may specialise in distinct areas of pest control. For instance, termite control technicians get rid of termites and prevent future infestations by using chemicals, baiting techniques and structure modification. Some may even restore the damage caused and prevent pests from accessing their food source by constructing barriers. Fumigators are specialists in eliminating large-scale infestations using gases called fumigants. Hoses are used to fumigate the affected and sealed off area, which needs careful monitoring to detect, prevent and fix leaks.
Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment
Freelancing Exterminators have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.
On the other hand, a full-time Exterminator has company-sponsored health benefits, liability insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.
When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.
Working as an Exterminator, you contribute to society by braving on-the-job hazards and dissipating the nuisance caused by vermin while ensuring safety and the upkeep of human life and health.
Read up on recent trends and technology in the extermination industry, especially innovations, such as electrical pest control technology. Maintain government-regulated licences and attend workshops on the new methods and services in the field.
Squirrels are regarded as pests since they cause damage to outdoor electrical wires and telephone lines. They cause quite a commotion as well by invading homes during winter.
What do Exterminators do?
An Exterminator would typically need to:
