Pest control technician

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• applying directly
• training with a professional body

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

DirectApplication

You could apply to companies directly to become a pest control technician. Employers usually look for GCSEs in English and maths.

Experience in the building trade, health and safety, or in handling chemicals may be useful. Many companies will offer training on the job if you have the right qualities.

OtherRoutes

You could do an online foundation course with the British Pest Control Association. This introduces the basics of pest management and can lead to further training to get industry-recognised qualifications.

The Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) also runs training courses for people looking to start in the industry, for example the Level 2 Award in Pest Management .

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work on your own
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of public safety and security
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• active listening skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• the ability to organise your time and workload
• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• knowledge of biology
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to sell products and services

What you'll do:

Pest control technicians identify infestations and get rid of pests like rats, mice, wasps and cockroaches.

As a pest control technician, you will:

• do site surveys to identify the cause and scale of problems
• work out the best way to treat infestations
• set traps, control devices or use chemicals to clear an area
• remove dead animals and send samples for analysis where required
• advise customers on how to prevent further problems
• complete accurate reports of work carried out

Location : You could work at a client's business or at a client's home.
Environment : Your working environment may be at height, dirty and cramped.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £22,000
Experienced : £30,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

42 - 45 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 8am and 6pm at short notice

Career Path:

With experience you could be promoted to supervisor or technical manager.

You could specialise in site survey work, pest control training or start your own business.

You might also move into environmental health or food safety, with further training.