22 tasks, each one witnessed by the sources that watched the job — and behind every one, a prompt you can use tonight.
You usually start by checking your work schedule in PestPac or your company’s scheduling system, then load the truck with chemicals, traps, and PPE. Most days include 3–6 service visits: inspect, measure the treatment area, decide the treatment type, apply chemicals or set traps, and post warning signs if fumigating.
After each job you clean the work site, record activities in the company report system or Microsoft Word/Excel, update supply inventory, and plan the next day. Driving between sites and paperwork often takes as much time as hands-on treatment.
You’ll use a work scheduling system (often PestPac) to see jobs and routes, a supply inventory system to track chemicals and traps, and report-writing tools like Microsoft Word and Excel to record inspections and treatments. Some companies use YouTube or online training modules for procedures.
PestPac is common for dispatch and customer records; Excel is useful for inventory counts and simple calculations (dilutions, area measurements). Keep printed safety data sheets or digital access for each pesticide.
You inspect the site, measure treatment areas, identify the pest (biology matters), and consider infestation level and occupant safety. Then pick between physical traps, chemical sprays, baits, or fumigation. National and European pesticide legislation and your company’s procedures limit which products you can use.
You must follow Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) procedures and post warning signs during fumigation. Record your decision and the products used in the report for legal and customer records.
AI can help suggest pest IDs from photos or draft a report, but verify everything yourself. Use AI only as a second opinion; confirm pest biology, measurements, and legal limits before acting. Never let AI pick chemicals or dosages without your professional check.
Keep records of your checks. Do not upload customer personal data or controlled safety documents to public AI tools. Use company-approved platforms and follow national pesticide legislation and COSHH rules when making treatment decisions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were about 102,620 pest control workers in 2025. The median pay is $45,250 per year. The lowest tenth earned about $34,680 and the top tenth about $61,890 annually.
Actual pay varies by region, employer, certifications, and whether you do commercial or residential work. Overtime, special certifications, or supervisory roles can raise earnings.
Start with a pest control technician course that covers pest biology, pesticide application, safety (COSHH), and national pesticide legislation. Many providers offer combined classroom and hands-on lab work; some companies train on the job using YouTube clips and internal materials.
Get comfortable with basic math for mixing solutions and measuring treatment areas, and learn to use PestPac or common scheduling/inventory systems. Obtain any state-required pesticide applicator license before handling restricted products.
Attention to detail: measuring treatment areas, recording products and quantities in reports, and following COSHH procedures. Clean-up and inventory control matter; customers notice a tidy work site and accurate supply tracking.
Communication and report writing are essential: explain treatments to occupants, post warning signs, and write clear inspection reports in Word or Excel. Driving safety and basic vehicle maintenance for a truck with spraying equipment are also regularly used skills.