How to become a Pest Control Technician

Training as a pest control technician opens the doors to a challenging but rewarding career path where no two days are the same. Whether you’re drawn to the desire to protect public health or the satisfaction of solving pest-related issues, this blog will outline all the steps involved in becoming an exterminator.

Considering life as a pest control technician? Why not sign up for one of our training courses. Fully certified and recognised by LANTRA and City and Guilds, start training for a career in pest control with ProGreen today.

There are two main pathways for getting into pest control: applying for a job as an exterminator directly, or training with a professional body.

Since many companies offer on-the-job training if you have the right qualities for the role, you don’t necessarily need a qualification to become a pest control technician. Instead, you can apply to companies directly to become an exterminator. Most employers will ask for GCSEs in English and Mathematics, while experience in the building trade, handling chemicals or in health and safety will benefit your application.

Alternatively, you can undertake a foundation course in pest management with an accredited professional body. Completing these courses can lead to additional training and industry-recognised certifications.

Like many other roles, it’s possible to work as a pest control technician on a self-employed basis. To work as a self-employed exterminator you’ll need proper training in this sector as well as a good level of professional experience. Knowing the pest control industry inside and out will enable you to take on more challenging - and more lucrative - jobs.

It’s recommended that all self-employed pest control technicians have at least a Level 2 Award in Pest Management. If you’re using pesticides in your work, a Specified Certificate in the Use of Pesticides is also required. Remember, pest control can be dangerous. If you don't follow safety guidelines, you could be endangering yourself and others.

Careers in the pest control industry are varied. If you’re unsure what part of pest control you want to go into, we recommend looking at the BPCA Jobs and Careers Board to see what’s out there.

Otherwise, the most popular types of jobs in pest control are:

• Pest control technician or exterminator
• Customer service and sales
• Administrative roles
• Management, including branch or service manager, and route manager

Gaining qualifications in pest control is a great way to learn the basics of what it means to be an exterminator, or further your knowledge as an experienced pest controller. While a Level 2 Award in Pest Management is recommended for all pest technicians, other relevant pest control qualifications might include:

• Using Rodenticides Safely
• Pesticide Application
• Professional Bed Bug Control
• Certificate in Bird Management
• Rodent Control
• Farm Health & Safety
• Safe Use of Fumigants for the Management of Invertebrate Pests
• Nematode Use

At ProGreen, we offer a number of online and in-person courses to obtain a qualification in pest control.

If you’re pressed for time or prefer training by yourself, online courses in pest control are perfect for learning more about the industry from the comfort of your own home. Online training is also beneficial for enhancing your skills, furthering your career in agriculture or pest control and helping you stay up-to-date with the latest guidance and regulations.

For those who enjoy in-person teaching, why not try a pest control classroom course? Taught by a skilled, highly-qualified industry trainer with years of experience in the field, courses like our pesticide training course can help on your journey to becoming a pest control technician. After your training course is complete, you’ll also receive a nationally recognised certificate.

If you’re wondering what life as an exterminator looks like, the training classes at ProGreen are a great way to dip your toe into the industry, and see how you can embark on this varied and rewarding career.

Categories: Rodent Control