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Exterminator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Marquee Pest Management Inc

Office Staff

Fremont, CA · On-site

$20/hr

We provide pest management, extermination and prevention services for both residential, industrial and commercial properties. We are looking for an Office Staff candidate with a positive attitude to ...

Marquee Pest Management Inc

Office Staff

Fremont, CA · On-site

$20/hr

We provide pest management, extermination and prevention services for both residential, industrial and commercial properties. We are looking for an Office Staff candidate with a positive attitude to ...

Marquee Pest Management Inc

Office Staff

Fremont, CA · On-site

$20/hr

We provide pest management, extermination and prevention services for both residential, industrial and commercial properties. We are looking for an Office Staff candidate with a positive attitude to ...

Marquee Pest Management Inc

Office Staff

Fremont, CA · On-site

We provide pest management, extermination and prevention services for both residential, industrial and commercial properties. We are looking for an Office Staff candidate with a positive attitude to ...

RAT EXCLUSION SERVICE LLC

Administrator

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

We are not an extermination company. Rather, our services focus on eradicating problems and then excluding them. At RES, we use poison-free techniques and time-tested processes to keep rats and mice ...

Western Exterminator

Carpenter

Hayward, CA

$17.16 - $25.75/hr

Benefits Start Day 1 for Full-Time Colleagues - No Waiting Period! For more information about our benefits, see below! We are proud to be a member of the Rentokil family of companies, the global ...

Western Exterminator

Pest Control Technician

Arcata, CA

$16.90 - $22/hr

Benefits Start Day 1 for Full-Time Colleagues - No Waiting Period! For more information about our benefits, see below! We are proud to be a member of the Rentokil family of companies, the global ...

Western Exterminator

Utility Technician

Carson, CA

$17 - $23/hr

Benefits Start Day 1 for Full-Time Colleagues - No Waiting Period! For more information about our benefits, see below! We are proud to be a member of the Rentokil family of companies, the global ...

Western Exterminator

Pest Control Technician

Arcata, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

Benefits Start Day 1 for Full-Time Colleagues - No Waiting Period! For more information about our benefits, see below! We are proud to be a member of the Rentokil family of companies, the global ...

Western Exterminator

Pest Control Technician

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Benefits Start Day 1 for Full-Time Colleagues - No Waiting Period! For more information about our benefits, see below! We are proud to be a member of the Rentokil family of companies, the global ...

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Exterminator information

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How much do exterminator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for exterminator in California is $21.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a licensed exterminator make?

Licensed exterminators typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, and some work on a contract basis or overtime, which can increase income.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Exterminators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or ownership of a business. Most exterminator positions offer moderate wages below this level.

What Do Exterminators Do?

The responsibilities of an exterminator, also called a pest control worker, include identifying the pest problem, using pesticides, or choosing, mixing, and applying a chemical solution to get rid of pests such as rodents, termites, cockroaches, bed bugs, and more. Other strategies include setting mechanical traps and placing bait, and then removing dead animals after the process is complete. In this role, you ensure that all people evacuate residences or buildings while any chemical spraying occurs, that the air quality is back to normal, and that pesticides are cleaned up before reentering. Other duties include inspecting the outside of the building to determine the invasion site of the pests and drilling into walls to access infested areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exterminator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exterminator, you need knowledge of pest biology, safe chemical handling, and pest control methods, often supported by a high school diploma and state pest control certification. Familiarity with tools like sprayers, baiting systems, and inspection equipment, as well as compliance with regulatory software, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, customer service skills, and effective communication help build trust and accurately assess pest problems. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient pest management and maintaining client satisfaction in a regulated industry.

What is the difference between Exterminator vs Pest Control Technician?

AspectExterminatorPest Control Technician
CertificationsRequires state-specific licenses, pesticide applicator certificationRequires similar licenses, often the same certifications
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor pest removal, residential and commercial sitesIndoor and outdoor pest management, including inspections and treatments
Industry UsageCommonly used term for pest elimination rolesOften used interchangeably, but can imply broader pest management services

Both roles involve pest elimination and require similar certifications. While 'Exterminator' emphasizes pest removal, 'Pest Control Technician' may include broader pest management tasks. The terms are often used interchangeably in the industry, with the primary focus on pest elimination services.

What does an exterminator do?

An exterminator is a professional who specializes in eliminating or controlling pests such as insects, rodents, and other unwanted creatures from homes, businesses, and other properties. They inspect properties to identify pest problems, determine the best treatment plan, and apply chemical or non-chemical solutions to eradicate infestations. Exterminators also provide advice on preventing future pest issues and may offer ongoing maintenance services to keep properties pest-free.

How hard is it to become an exterminator?

Becoming an exterminator typically requires completing state-specific training or certification programs, gaining on-the-job experience, and understanding pest control methods and safety procedures. Most states also require passing a licensing exam, and some roles may require ongoing education to stay current with industry standards.

Is exterminator a good career?

An exterminator is a professional who controls pests and insects, often working outdoors or in residential and commercial settings. The job typically requires knowledge of pest control methods, safety procedures, and may involve certification or licensing. It can offer stable employment with opportunities for advancement, but may involve physical labor and exposure to chemicals.

What are some common challenges exterminators face on the job, and how can they prepare for them?

Exterminators often encounter challenging conditions such as working in confined or hazardous environments, dealing with potentially dangerous pests, and handling chemicals safely. To prepare, it's important to stay up-to-date on safety protocols, wear protective gear, and maintain effective communication with clients. Building problem-solving skills and being adaptable can help exterminators respond to unexpected pest infestations and ensure client satisfaction. Ongoing training and certification also support safe and effective job performance.
More about Exterminator jobs
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What job categories do people searching Exterminator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Exterminator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Exterminator jobs? Cities in California with the most Exterminator job openings:
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Exterminator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exterminator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,210 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Pest Technician - Exterminator

Ecola Services, Inc.

Mission Hills, CA • On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Ecola Services, Inc. is hiring a full-time Pest Technician - Exterminator for our Mission Hills, CA location. If you want steady work with a trusted company and are ready to help people with pest problems, this could be the job for you.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

You will work full-time helping customers in the Mission Hills area. Your hours and days will be set by what customers need and what your manager assigns. This is a full-time job with a salary between $53,058 and up/year with sales commission on top of wages.

Generous Benefits:

  • Health
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Life insurance
  • Sales opportunities
  • Commissions

HOW WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE

At Ecola Services, Inc., we believe working together as a team helps us succeed. We use both non-chemical and traditional methods to control pests, and we are always ready for any challenge because we have the right tools for every job. We want our team members to grow and do their best, and at Ecola, you get more than just a job-you get a place where your hard work is noticed, you are paid well, and you have support to keep learning and moving forward.

THE PEST TECHNICIAN - EXTERMINATOR REQUIREMENTS:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to maintain continuing education and licensing requirements
  • Comprehensive technical knowledge of pest identification and control methods
  • Math aptitude for measuring, mixing, and applying treatments
  • GPS/map reading and navigation skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Exceptional customer service and relationship-building skills
  • Organization and time management abilities
  • Safety awareness and compliance
  • Pest control or related experience is preferred

AVERAGE DAY AS A PEST TECHNICIAN - EXTERMINATOR

This job is full-time and has a steady work schedule, helping customers in the Mission Hills, CA area. Your exact hours will depend on what customers need and what your manager assigns.

Your day will start by getting your work vehicle and equipment ready. You will visit customers to check for signs of pests and figure out what treatments are needed. You will use chemicals, bait, or other methods to get rid of pests and help keep them away. You will talk to customers about their treatment plans and answer questions. You will also promote our services, collect payments, and keep clear records of your work. You will call the office to confirm your jobs and let them know when you finish. You will go to training and safety meetings, keep your certificates up to date, and always follow safety rules. Sometimes, you will hand out flyers, ask for referrals, and request online reviews. Other tasks may be given by your manager.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Be our new Pest Technician - Exterminator! Apply now using our mobile-friendly application. We are excited to hear from you!