When people in homes and offices
hear a dreaded scratching in the walls
or see something small and brown
skitter across the floor,
they are relieved to know a pest control
worker is just a phone call away.
Pest control workers remove
unwanted creatures, such as roaches,
rats, ants, bedbugs, and termites from
homes, buildings, and surrounding areas.
They typically inspect
buildings for signs of pests,
determine the treatment needed,
and estimate the cost of
their services for customers.
Their methods include using traps,
pesticides and power spraying-equipped
trucks to remove or kill pests.
There are 2 types of pest control workers:
Pest control technicians identify
pest problems, conduct inspections,
and design strategies.
They work directly with customers
and use a limited range of pesticides.
Applicators use a wider range of
pesticides and handle more serious
pests such as termites,
as well as fumigating houses to
treat large-scale infestations.
Most pest control workers
work full time, often including evenings
and weekends. Overtime is common.
A high school diploma or equivalent is
usually required, and employers provide
formal instruction and on-the-job training.