If you are interested in starting a pest control business, then one of the major requirements is getting trained. This also includes persons not interested in starting a business, but interested in getting trained.
This article will discuss how to get pest control training and will provide all the information you need to know on requirements (if any) for training.
People are increasingly using the services of trained professionals or technicians as their training has reflected in the high level of professionalism with which they approach their jobs.
As a trained pest control technician, one may choose to work with a pest control service or company (many of which are available) or may be interested in becoming an independent contractor, providing such professional services to both residential and commercial clients like other pest control services do.
As an independent contractor, you may choose to start your own pest control business.
Whatever the case, the ball is in your court, as becoming a pest control technician opens doors to possibilities.
Specializations In Pest Control
There are many areas of specialization in pest control.
Being trained in all the areas of specializations presents you with the opportunity and capability to provide your services to almost any client. These range from the provision of animal removal services, termite extermination, animal pest control, and plant pest control.
Others include lawn care and treatments disease control (caused by pest) and other variety of pest control services.
However, it is important that before you commence training, you choose a niche you have the most interest in. You are likely to become exceptional if you choose a field or area of specialization most dear to you.
It is important to note that as a pest control technician, knowing your job and the satisfaction of clients is likely to attract new clients who are likely to patronize your services based on the recommendation of your satisfied clients.
Pest Control Technician Training
Before becoming a pest control technician, several requirements must be met. Some of these include obtaining a high school diploma, as well as a period of training which normally lasts 3 to 4 months.
Within this time, training usually covers safety rules as well as knowledge on the general use of pesticides. There are also licensing issues that you must meet. Every state has its licensing procedure as well as training requirements.
For the state of California, visit here for more details.
It is important that before you begin pest control training, ensure your school is fully recognized by the State’s Pesticide Control Board. Some of the institutions where you can receive training to become a pest control specialist include extension programs offered by universities and technical centers among several other schools.
Refer to your state’s Pesticide Control Board for the list of schools in the state or go here.
Getting On-the-Job Training
This is a core requirement for qualifying as a pest control technician. This usually comes after you must have undergone training.
Also, the issuance of certification depends on taking an exam where you will be tested on common pest control techniques as well as the adoption of the highest safety measures. These will determine if you are qualified to become a pest control technician or not.
A license may also be offered at the end of the exam depending on the requirements of your state.
Renewal Of Licensing
Most states require that pest control technicians renew their licenses after a time specified by the licensing body.
Part of the requirements for licensing is that technicians undergo continuous training which updates their knowledge on any developments as well as evolving pest behavior.
This ensures that pest control technicians are kept up-to-date with knowledge, as well as building their capacity for professionalism which ultimately benefits the client who uses their service.
For persons who choose to be independent contractors, these courses must be enrolled as it determines the renewal of their licenses.
Career Opportunities
By becoming a pest control technician, there are several opportunities presented to the technician which allows for career advancement. These include continuous training and retraining to enable the technician to stay updated with the industry’s best practices.
Also, becoming a pest control technician affords you the flexibility of either being employed with a pest control company or floating your own pest control business.
This is in addition to the attractive salary package which the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics pegs at $32,160 per annum for pest control technicians. This is a median salary scale and can increase considerably depending on the level of training or the company you work with.
The possibilities of becoming a pest control specialist are endless for persons with a passion to pursue a career in pest control.
Obtaining pest control training has been our topic under consideration as we seek to provide our readers with all the requirements needed to start a career in pest control. It must be noted that this job requires attention to detail, including dedication to service.
Also, it will require you to move around with heavy equipment as well as squeezing yourself into difficult positions during periods of inspections.
Overall, the job is rewarding for those who have the desire to make an impact by providing relief for households and businesses.