Pest Control Technician
Identify, control, and prevent pest infestations in domestic, commercial, and public sector properties using a range of professional methods.
Moderate
Moderate
3–12 months to gain entry-level qualifications; many employers train on the job
Level 2 (BPCA/RSPH Award; BASIS PROMPT)
common
What you do
Pest control technicians survey properties for signs of infestation, identify the species involved, and apply appropriate control measures — which may include rodenticide bait stations, insecticide treatments, proofing work, traps, or advice on hygiene and environmental changes. You work across a range of sites: domestic homes, food businesses, schools, hospitals, and industrial premises.
Why this career is resilient
Pest control is inherently site-specific and requires physical inspection, hands-on application, and professional judgement that cannot be automated. Demand is structurally driven by urbanisation, climate change (expanding ranges of some pest species), food safety regulation, and construction. The sector is regulated and growing.
A typical day
A typical day involves 4–8 site visits, ranging from a residential rat problem to a commercial kitchen fly infestation. Each visit involves surveying, treatment application, client communication, and written records.
Routes in
Employer-funded training
Some employers — particularly the NHS, emergency services, and larger care providers — run their own funded training programmes. You apply for a job and train as you work.
Full-time college course
Study full-time at a further education college, usually for 1–2 years. You will need to fund yourself or apply for a student loan (available for Level 4+ courses).
Pay and costs
Earning potential: Starting salaries around £24,000–£28,000. Experienced employed technicians earn £30,000–£40,000. Self-employed pest controllers commonly earn £40,000–£60,000+.
Training costs: RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management typically costs £400–£800. Some employers fund training as part of a structured programme.