The pest control industry offers a multitude of job opportunities and career tracks for many, including an unsuspecting demographic – women. In fact, the professional pest control industry is experiencing a period of incredible growth.
According to the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pest control workers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all other trade and skilled work occupations.
Woman to woman
Women working in professional pest control contribute at every level, from working in the field as technicians to help identify and control pest problems, to holding customer service or management positions. Others may enter the industry in research and science driven roles, such as entomologists.
Many women say that while people may at first be surprised by their career choice, it actually complements the strengths and qualities that are innate to them, including strong communication skills and showing empathy toward customers.
Oftentimes, they are dealing with other women when entering customers’ homes. This comfortable interaction enables customers to be more open, relaxed, and willing to disclose information when speaking to female technicians, and technicians are therefore able to do their job effectively and efficiently.
Mothers working in pest control can also relate to customers that are concerned about the health and well-being of their families when it comes to having pest problems in the home. Overall, women working in the field feel they are natural caretakers, and enjoy being in an industry where they are truly helping other people and contributing to improving their quality of life.
Employee benefits
The advantages to women working in the pest control industry are also a major draw. Many positions offer flexibility in terms of hours and scheduling, and provide benefits that are essential to today’s work-life balance.
The industry also offers job security and growth opportunities that many women value. In fact, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), a non-profit organization committed to the protection of public health, food, and property from the diseases and dangers of pests, conducted a workforce survey with Pest Control Technology magazine in which 81 percent of respondents reported being satisfied with their job security.
The educational requirements to enter the field are also flexible. The minimum requirement is typically a high school diploma or GED, and although this is a highly regulated industry that requires training and licensing, it is not needed to initially apply for a job. Most companies will provide a comprehensive training program for new employees in addition to ongoing education opportunities.
NPMA also provides training and resources to its member companies to aid in the advancement of women in the industry through educational programs, resources, and peer networking. NPMA also offers a grant program to further advance career growth and alleviate the costs related to education. Therefore, working for a pest control company that is a member of a third-party state or national association can open even more doors.
The professional pest control industry is continuing to grow and so many of the skills critical for success align naturally with women’s inherent strengths. This career path offers women stability, flexibility, and a multitude of opportunities for advancement and great self-fulfillment in knowing their work truly impacts the lives of others.