Pest Control 101: What Every New Technician Should Know

7 tips to cover the basics.

Starting out in pest control? Whether you're jumping into your first training program or shadowing a licensed tech, you're stepping into a field that blends science, customer service, and a whole lot of practical know-how. Here's a breakdown of what every new pest control technician needs to know to hit the ground running.

🧠 1. Learn the Pest Basics

Before you grab your sprayer, get familiar with pest identification. Know your ants from your termites, your mice from your roof rats. Understanding behavior, habitat, and life cycles is key to choosing the right treatment. Pro tip: Start with the most common pests in your region and expand from there.

⚖️ 2. Understand the Rules & Regulations

Pest control is heavily regulated—and for good reason. You’ll need to follow your local state licensing requirements, which usually include training, exams, and continuing education. Also, brush up on state and federal guidelines (like those from the EPA and your local regulatory organization) about pesticide use and safety.

🛑 Never apply a product unless you’re fully trained and certified to do so.

🧰 3. Get to Know Your Tools

From B&G sprayers to granule spreaders and moisture meters, your tools are your best friends. Learn how to clean, calibrate, and troubleshoot them. Proper use means more effective treatments—and fewer callbacks.

🧪 4. Master Product Knowledge

You’ll use a range of pesticides, baits, and traps, and each has its purpose. Know when to use a residual spray vs. a bait, and how different active ingredients affect different pests. Always read the label—it’s the law, and your first line of safety.

🧤 5. Prioritize Safety—Yours and Theirs

Always wear the correct PPE (personal protective equipment) and understand chemical handling protocols. Know how to store products securely and communicate clearly with clients about when it’s safe to re-enter treated areas.

👥 6. Communication is Part of the Job

You’re not just killing bugs—you’re building trust. Learn how to explain treatments, set expectations, and educate homeowners. As a pest control technician, you are the one interacting with clients in person. Confident, clear explanations go a long way with clients who might be nervous about treatments or grossed out about pests.

🚗 7. Stay Organized in the Field

Route planning, report writing, and inventory tracking all matter. The more organized you are, the smoother your day goes. Many companies use software to streamline this—get comfortable with mobile apps and digital logbooks.

Final Thoughts

The pest control industry is full of opportunity, but success starts with strong fundamentals. Learn the science, follow the rules, use your gear right, and treat people well. Nail that, and you’ll go far in this business.

**Always follow local, state, and federal laws when applying pest control products. Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and strictly adhere to all product label instructions—the label is the law.

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