Necessary steps to become an Exterminator

There are many jobs in the world, some of them appear with technological and scientific advancements in society and others just stick with the times.

That is the case for exterminators, it is one of the oldest professions in the world and even if some people don’t see themselves doing it, the truth is, it is here to stay.

How to become an Exterminator?

To become an exterminator, you need a high school diploma. You may also need a license or certification to become an exterminator.

Obtaining a license or certification usually requires a combination of classroom training and on-the-job practice.

Typically, initial exterminator training lasts about three months. In lieu of training, some states or companies may allow you to work as a rookie or a trainee before taking the exterminator license exam.

After you’ve done your training, you will take an exam and hopefully, you will pass.

What happens after taking the exam?

If you pass the exam, you will be qualified to work as a pest control technician, which is the basic exterminator position.

As a technician, you will not be able to use all pesticides but will be restricted to a certain amount.

After some time (months or years) of work, study and training, you can advance to become an applicator, fumigator, or even a supervisor.

Can an exterminator use poison?

Some exterminators can use rat poison to eliminate rodents, but before becoming an exterminator, you need to learn how to kill and remove pests such as rats, mice, ants, and cockroaches without the risk of causing harm to pets or humans.

This is usually covered in the initial training to become an exterminator technician.

You will also learn all the specific laws about pest removal and pesticide use in your state.

This is a crucial step for your career evolution, exterminators study many laws and a lot of techniques to keep up with the times.

As an exterminator or fumigator who uses specific and restricted pesticides, you should know how to apply the proper warning labels to prevent accidental exposure.

What skills do you need to become an Exterminator?

You’ll need certain skills before you can become an exterminator. As an exterminator, you must be able to communicate with your customers so that you understand their problems.

You must be able to explain the methods you will use to kill or remove pests and any safety issues.

To become an exterminator, you need to be physically fit and in good health.

The job may involve discomfort, such as crawling on a liner or climbing the stairs to a hot attic.

Because you may be required to drive the company truck or van, you must have a clean driving record.

Where can you find exterminator jobs?

Your chances of finding a job as an exterminator may be higher in a warm climate, as pests are more prevalent in areas with warm or hot weather.

While many exterminators start their careers working for a larger company, some start their own businesses after a few years of experience. Some may move into administrative positions within a company, although in most cases a college degree is preferred for these positions.

Can you have a future as an exterminator?

Although you may not picture this in your mind, keep the thought that many exterminators start their own companies down the line.

Others advance to other roles inside companies and some invent their own products to sell worldwide. Not a bad future when looking ahead.

Many companies are in continuous development to always fight off plagues from the moment they attack crops to the moment they invade our homes. Just look at what PSA is doing. Pests won't go away anytime soon, it's a bit safe to bet that this line of job won't end anytime soon.

How much do pest control exterminators make?

In 2020 a survey has determined that most exterminators made a median income of $37,820. The highest-paid exterminators earned 48,570 while the lowest-income group cashed $30,450.

With these numbers, you can have a general idea if it is a career worth pursuing. Exterminators can also receive great tips when they do a good job.

Is the extermination business profitable?

As long as there are bugs in the world there will be problems with them. Not all commercial solutions are able to handle those issues, and when there are bug problems people will always call exterminators.

So there you have it if you are thinking to become an exterminator start by pondering these challenges and benefits, it can be a little tough in the beginning but if you are willing to, it can be the rewarding future you are looking for.