Exterminator Job Description
Exterminators use their knowledge of insect and rodent biology to remove pests from homes, offices and other buildings. By destroying infestations of rats, mice, roaches and other pests, they remove possible health and safety risks and provide clients with peace of mind. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 67,500 exterminators employed in the United States in 2008, with many of the jobs concentrated in cities and warmer climates where there tend to be more pests.
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Description
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Exterminators use a variety of methods to remove pests from buildings. In many cases, they use pesticides to rid a residence or business of an infestation. They may also use traps to remove rodents and other large pests. Exterminators may create physical barriers to prevent pests from entering a building as well. They may also use baits that kill pests or stop reproduction. In addition, exterminators utilize technology to inspect buildings, such as microchips that transmit signals when termites are present. Some exterminators may also help repair damage caused by pests.
Training
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Most exterminator positions require at least a high school degree or GED. Some exterminators have college degrees as well, though they tend to receive the bulk of their training on the job. They begin as technicians, and attend employer-sponsored training sessions. Classroom training for exterminators may focus on a variety of subjects, including rodent control, pest control, fumigation and turf control. Formal training programs generally run a few months. Exterminators must also be licensed. Requirements vary by state, but most states require exterminators to attend an approved training program and pass a licensing exam.
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Working Conditions
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Exterminators spend a great deal of time traveling because they must visit clients' homes and businesses. They are sometimes required to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, and must be in good physical shape because the job requires kneeling, crawling and bending to inspect and treat infestations. Heavy use of pesticides can have potentially harmful effects on exterminators' health, so they must wear protective gear. Generally exterminators work 40-hour weeks, but they may be required to work overtime as well, including evenings and weekends.
Salary
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wages for exterminators were $14.37 as of May 2008. The top 10 percent was paid over $21.34 per hour, while the lowest 10 percent were paid less than $9.45. The middle 50 percent was paid between $11.68 and $17.67.
Employment Outlook
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for exterminators should grow by 15 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is a faster rate than the average for all occupations. Due to health concerns, more and more people are hiring trained professionals to remove pests instead of handling it themselves. In addition, the shortage of new workers entering the field means that formally trained exterminators should see many job prospects.
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References
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