Pest Control Responsibilties:
Apply or release chemical solutions or toxic gases and set traps to kill or remove pests and vermin that infest buildings and surrounding areas.
Pest Control Benefits:
Make bugs your full time job. See all kinds of critters so others don't need to deal with them! Lots of food processing plants have CRAZY bug problems.
In Texas, professional pest control technicians must be licensed to apply general and restricted-use pesticides in both commercial and residential settings.
Types of Pest Control Licenses in Texas:
Commercial Agricultural Pesticide Applicator License: This license allows a business to apply state-limited-use pesticides or restricted-use pesticides on another person’s property.
Structural Certified Applicator License: This license authorizes a person to provide pest control services for a business that holds a pest control license.
Private Applicator License: This license enables a person to supervise or use state-limited-use pesticides, restricted-use pesticides, and regulated herbicides to produce agricultural commodities without compensation.
Structural Technician License: This license allows a person to perform pest control services under the direct supervision of a licensed applicator.
Noncommercial Agricultural Pesticide Applicator License: This license authorizes a person to apply pesticides for job-related duties.
Noncommercial Agricultural Political Applicator License: This license permits a person to apply pesticides on behalf of a government agency.
Texas Pest Control License Fees: The fees for Texas pest control licenses range from $100 to $400. All licenses are administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Average Yearly Pay for Texas Pest Control Technicians: Approximately $37,000.
Job Opportunity:
Looking to start a career in pest control? Apply for a job as a pest control technician apprentice with a locally-owned or national pest control company. In Texas, you can obtain your pest control license without enrolling in a trade school or college. However, you will need to complete at least 20 hours of pesticide courses. These courses cover important topics such as pesticide safety, environmental protection, pesticide application, and non-chemical pest control techniques. Many employers offer pesticide training for their apprentices.
Training Programs:
Course Costs:
Expect to pay between $75 and $300 per course.
Prerequisites:
On-the-Job Experience:
Licensing Board Information:
Apply for your license online with the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Examination Requirements:
To obtain a Texas pest control license, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. A license exam is required, with examination fees ranging from $100 to $200 per exam.
Examination Categories include:
Examination Resources:
Use the following resources to prepare for your Texas pest control examination:
The pest control industry in Texas is in need of technicians from Dallas to Austin and all across the state. If you're looking for a pest control technician job in your area, these websites can help:
If you're curious about the hourly pay rate for pest control technicians in Texas, it is $18.51. You can find more information here.
Preparing for your interview? Here are some common questions to practice your responses to:
To make a good impression at your interview, come prepared and appear professional. Remember to bring copies of your education credentials, resume, social security card, and driver's license.
Current trends in the pest control industry in Texas:
These trends in the pest control industry can help professionals in Texas provide effective pest management services. By automating scheduling and billing services, pest control businesses can streamline their operations and provide convenience to customers. Understanding the behaviors and characteristics of local pests is crucial for devising targeted and effective pest control strategies. Attending local and national pest control legislation hearings enables professionals to stay updated with the latest regulations and standards in the industry. Applying safe pesticides ensures the protection of both the environment and customers' health. Finally, by educating customers about pest prevention techniques, professionals can empower them to take proactive measures in preventing pest infestations.
Common Dangers for Pest Control Technicians in Texas
Protective Tips for Texas Pest Control Technicians
As a pest control professional in Texas, it is important to be aware of the reciprocity agreements with other states. These agreements allow pest control professionals from Texas to operate in certain states without having to obtain additional licenses or permits.
Knowing these reciprocity agreements can be helpful if you are planning to expand your pest control operations beyond the state of Texas. It is recommended to research and familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and requirements of each state before providing services there under reciprocity.
Renewing Your Pest Control License in Texas
If you are involved in the pest-control profession in Texas, it is important to adhere to the licensing requirements. In most cases, Texas pest control licenses need to be renewed annually, although there may be some exceptions. To ensure you can continue your essential work, follow these steps to renew your license:
By following these steps and meeting the renewal criteria, you can continue serving Texas residents and businesses by effectively managing pest-related issues and ensuring a safe environment.
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