Did you know over 140,000 pest control technicians work in the U.S.? Their salaries jumped by 13.5% from 2022 to 2023. This shows the exterminator income is more dynamic and promising than many think.
Pest control salaries change based on experience, location, and specialty. The average annual pay for pest technicians is between $37,820 and $48,776. There’s room for growth and advancement in this field.
Thinking about a career in pest control? Knowing the financial side is key. The industry offers competitive pay and promising career paths. It’s not just about fighting pests.
The best pest control workers can make up to $53,603 a year in places like New Hampshire. Cities like Sacramento, California, offer even better pay packages.
Whether you’re new or experienced, pest control is a rewarding career. It offers steady growth, competitive wages, and a strong job market.
Overview of Pest Control Workers’ Salaries
Pest management professionals earn a range of salaries. This range changes based on location and experience. It’s a field with stable job opportunities.
National Median Salary Insights
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $41,724 for pest control workers in May 2023. This is a 13.5% increase from the year before. It shows the growing need for skilled workers in this field.
Key Salary Factors
Several factors affect how much pest control workers earn:
- Years of professional experience
- Geographic location
- Specialized certifications
- Technical skills
- Additional training
Salary Ranges Across the United States
Salaries for pest management professionals vary widely:
- Highest median salaries: California ($53,900), New Jersey, Washington
- Lowest median salaries: West Virginia ($45,600), Mississippi, Arkansas
- National average hourly wage: Approximately $20
- Hourly wage range: $12.01 to $29.41
“The pest control industry offers competitive compensation with significant growth for skilled professionals.”
There are over 140,000 pest control technicians working today. The field is growing at a 2.1% rate. It’s a promising career for those seeking stability and growth.
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Understanding the income in pest control can help plan your career. Pest control technicians see big salary changes with experience and skills.
Your pay will grow as you get better at your job. Let’s look at how salaries change with experience:
Entry-Level Positions
At the start, you can make about $33,462 to $39,957 a year. Entry-level jobs have:
- Starting hourly wage between $16-$17
- Basic training and supervision
- Learning basic pest management
Mid-Level Positions
After 3-5 years, you can earn more. Mid-level technicians make between $38,262 and $45,688, showing more skill.
- Hourly rates around $18-$20
- More independent work
- Potential for special certifications
Senior-Level Positions
Those with over 5-8 years earn well. Senior technicians make $57,419 to $61,170 a year, based on skills and experience.
“Continuous learning and skill development are key to maximizing your earning in pest control.”
- Hourly rates approaching $23-$29
- Advanced certifications
- Potential leadership or training roles
Geographic Variation in Salaries
Your pay in pest control can change a lot based on where you work. Salaries for pest experts vary a lot across states and cities. This makes where you work very important for your earnings.
The United States has a wide range of salaries for pest control workers. Some states pay more than others.
Differences Across States
Looking at pest control pay, some states stand out as the highest earners:
- California: Leads with highest average salaries around $48,776
- New Jersey: Offers competitive compensation packages
- Washington: Provides strong earning opportunities
- Massachusetts: Has above-average pay
- New York: Has robust salary ranges
Urban vs. Rural Pay Discrepancies
Urban areas usually pay pest experts more. Here are some salary insights:
- San Francisco offers approximately $58,700 annually
- New York City averages around $55,400
- Newark provides competitive rates near $54,800
- Seattle presents opportunities around $54,100
Location can significantly impact your earning in the pest control industry.
Your career in pest control can be greatly influenced by where you work. Researching local pay rates and understanding regional differences can help you make the most of your career.
Benefits and Perks in Pest Control Jobs
Pest control technicians get more than just a good salary. They also enjoy a range of benefits that make their job appealing. These perks are part of the total compensation package for exterminators.
Health Insurance Coverage
Most pest control companies offer great health insurance. This includes:
- Medical coverage
- Dental insurance
- Vision care options
- Preventative health screenings
Retirement Planning Options
Pest control technicians also get strong retirement plans. Employers often provide:
- 401(k) retirement accounts
- Company matching contributions
- Investment guidance
- Long-term financial security programs
Paid Time Off Advantages
Exterminators also get a lot of paid time off. This includes:
- Vacation days
- Sick leave
- Personal days
- Holiday pay
“Our employees are our most valuable asset. We offer great benefits to attract and keep top talent in pest control.” – Industry Professional
Pest control is a growing field, with a 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030. It’s ranked in the top 10 maintenance jobs. This makes it a promising career with many benefits.
Career Advancement and Salary Growth
Your pest control career can grow a lot with the right steps. Getting special certifications can really help your salary go up. For example, getting a Certified Pesticide Applicator or Integrated Pest Management certification could raise your pay by 5% to 30% according to industry salary data.
To move up, you need to learn more and focus on certain areas. For example, being good at termite control, wildlife management, or agricultural pest control can make you more money. Senior technicians with lots of experience and certifications can make about $57,419 a year, which is a lot more than beginners.
It’s also important to make connections in your field. Joining groups like the National Pest Management Association can help. You’ll meet experts, learn about new tech, and find new career paths. Places like San Francisco and New York City often have better jobs for skilled people.
Getting more education and keeping up with trends can also increase your pay. An Associate’s degree might add 20% to 30% to your salary. A Bachelor’s degree could raise it by 40% to 60%. Staying updated and improving your skills will help you succeed in this field.