Pest Controller
841913 · Heavy Next-day ready Career data Verified
Pest control technicians trap and kill animal and insect pests. They may work in homes and buildings or in conservation.
Most common salary $55k – $88k
Upper salary up to $112k
Training 0-1 year
Description
Applies pest management techniques to kill and control pests in domestic, commercial and industrial areas, roadsides, and private and public lands.
Typical work tasks
- Ascertains nature and extent of pest to be eradicated; sprays chemicals or lays appropriate bait, wears protective clothing if applicable; may make follow-up visits to ensure eradication has been completed.
Typical work environment
- Works in both indoors and outdoor environments. Spider and borer workers apply chemical sprays and fumes.
- Work spaces are often exposed to the prevailing weather conditions when outdoors. Protective clothing is frequently worn, for both weather and chemical protection.
- Work spaces are generally adequately heated and ventilated when indoors but may be confined or very dirty.
Typical physical and mental demands
- Medium to heavy physical demand levels.
- Constantly stands and walks about the workplace.
- Stretching and reaching across, or climbing ladders and steps is frequent.
- Squatting or crouching is a frequent requirement for most roles where setting bait or accessing awkward spaces is required.
- Bending is a frequent requirement.
- Twisting of the body or neck is frequent when carrying out some of the required tasks such as inspecting properties, laying baits or when spraying surfaces that are above head height.
- Substantial contact with skin irritants or water is occasional. Pest control workers use a variety of chemicals, poisonous baits, sprays and fumigating substances, which are often harmful to humans. Protective equipment should be utilised.
- Medium to heavy lifting, pulling or carrying will be a frequent requirement in the form of transporting spraying or fumigation equipment and materials, or backpacks.
- Repetitive movements likely to be frequently required for tasks such as spraying.
- Driving is likely to be a frequent requirement for most positions, in order to move from one worksite to another.
- Use of hand tools will be a frequent requirement.
- Mental skills necessary include practical, organisational and decision-making skills.
Entry signal Model estimate
Enter via experience or on-the-job training; no mandatory pre-entry qualification. A licence may be required for some roles or employers. Flagged next-day ready.
Entry barrier Experience or on-job training
Licence / registration Licence may be required
ANZSCO skill level 4
Next-day ready Yes
Unverified — this label is model-generated and not yet clinician-reviewed. Confirm against the WTDS before relying on it.
How this was determined (model-generated): Base entry via experience/OJT; pest-control Approved Handler cert is conditional ('registration/licensing may be required'), not universal - proposal holds.
Entry Requirements
- A New Zealand Register Level 2 or 3 qualification or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4). In some instances relevant experience may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.
- Registration and/or licensing may be required.
Further Comments
- There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.