Pest control workers remove unwanted creatures, such as roaches, rats, ants, bedbugs, and termites that infest buildings and surrounding areas.

Pest control workers must travel to clients' sites. Workers often kneel, bend, and crawl in tight spaces to inspect sites. Because there are health risks associated with pesticide use, workers are trained in pesticide safety and sometimes wear protective gear, including respirators, gloves, and goggles. Working evenings and weekends is common.

State laws require pest control workers to be licensed. Most workers need a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training, usually lasting less than 3 months.

The median annual wage for pest control workers was $32,160 in May 2015.

Employment of pest control workers is projected to show little or no change from 2014 to 2024. Job opportunities should be good because of the limited number of people seeking work in pest control and the need to replace workers who leave this occupation.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for pest control workers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of pest control workers with similar occupations.

Learn more about pest control workers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.