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Exterminator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Termite Technician

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$20 - $28/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 ...

Termite Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Termite Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Pest Control Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/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 ...

Utility Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Utility Technician

Carson, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Utility Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Pest Control Technician

Hayward, CA · On-site

$16 - $21/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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Exterminator information

See California salary details

$17

$21

$24

How much do exterminator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exterminator?

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 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.

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.

Do exterminators make money?

Exterminators typically earn an hourly wage or salary, with median pay around $15 to $20 per hour, depending on experience and location. Experienced exterminators or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, and some may receive commissions or bonuses. The job often requires certification and knowledge of pest control tools and chemicals.

How hard is it to be an exterminator?

Becoming an exterminator requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and knowledge of pest control methods and safety procedures. The job often involves working in confined or challenging environments and may require certification or licensing depending on local regulations.

What does the average exterminator make a year?

The average exterminator earns around $36,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Many exterminators work full-time, often with on-the-job training and the use of pest control tools and chemicals.

What qualifications do you need to work in pest control as an exterminator?

To work as an exterminator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Many states require pest control operators to obtain a license or certification, which involves passing an exam on safety, chemicals, and pest management practices. Strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of pest control tools and chemicals are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exterminator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Exterminator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Exterminator jobs in California?

For Exterminator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Exterminator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Exterminator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Exterminator jobs in CA?

For Exterminator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Exterminator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $44,210 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

$62K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

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 leader in Pest Control and other services across more than 90 countries. We pride ourselves on being a trusted partner to many of the world's leading brands and serve consumer and business customers across multiple industries. We are extremely proud of our legacy of excellence and constantly work to fulfill our mission to "protect people, enhance lives, and preserve the planet."

What do our Residential Sales Specialists do?

The primary purpose of this role is selling the company's Residential Pest Management Services and Products to new and existing residential customers, while maintaining a customer-focused service to grow the business. This includes assessing customers' needs by performing a needs analysis based on customer concerns using expert knowledge of the company's products and services that result in the sales of the organization's pest control solutions.

Functions include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Assessing customers' needs by performing a needs analysis based on customer concerns using expert knowledge of the company's products and services and certifications.
  • Visually inspects homes and businesses for pests, pest harborage, pest entries, etc
  • Based on assessment findings, sell pest control solutions for residential customers.
  • Collaborates with our customer service center, Inside Sales department, and technicians for increased opportunities
  • Partners with Branch Manager to identify revenue streams with our current base and service specialist engagement Develop proposals for customers to resolve existing pest issues while also proposing additional enhancements to pest household services.
  • Complete Home diagram using Sales CRM and provided to ensure clear understanding of customer home and possible challenges.
  • Follow up on past proposals to close sales opportunities
  • Provide expert knowledge to new service installations to ensure the job is completed satisfactorily
  • Complete daily activities and sales performance using the company sales CRM

What do you need?

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Prefer Associate's or Technical degree
  • Pest Industry certifications a plus
  • Must have 1 or more years of sales or pest technician experience
  • Prefer 1-2 years of experience in pest control sales and 2 or more years in a customer service role
  • Must be an effective verbal communicator, with particular emphasis on customer-facing conversations and presentation with additional follow-ups
  • Must possess a valid driver's license from state of residence
  • Travel up to 100% of time within assigned territory(s)

Base pay range: $15.87-$28.27/hour

Annual Total Earning Potential after initial training period: $62300 - $108400 / year

In addition to the base pay, a Colleague working in this role who has completed training may be eligible to earn additional monetary compensation including overtime, incentive, and/or commission pay. Total annual earning potential may vary based on performance, assigned routes, and achieving Key Performance Indicators ("KPIs").

Pay Range

Hourly: $20.00 - $26.00

Why Choose Us?
A career with the Rentokil family of companies can be a professional trajectory filled with opportunity. We pride ourselves on being a world-class team that rewards high performance, and we love to promote from within. We offer competitive pay and many of our roles offer performance incentives.
Below you'll find information about some of what we have to offer. All Full-Time Colleagues qualify for the following and Part-Time Colleagues qualify for most benefits after they meet certain criteria.
Click here to read more about our Total Rewards Program which includes:
Professional and Personal Growth

  • Multiple avenues to grow your career

  • Training and development programs available

  • Tuition Reimbursement benefits (for FT Colleagues)


Health and Wellness

  • Full-time colleagues are eligible to begin enrollment immediately upon hire with benefits starting on day 1

  • Health benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance plus much more


Savings and Retirement

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching contributions

Work-Life Balance

  • Vacation days & sick days

  • Company-paid holidays & floating holidays

  • A company mindset that prioritizes health, safety, and flexibility


We are looking for individuals who want to make a difference where our customers live and work. Is that you?

This company is a Drug Free workplace.

Rentokil is committed to complying with all Federal, State, and local laws related to the employment of qualified individuals with disabilities.

California residents click here to review your privacy rights.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

By applying to this job, you agree to receive initial texts from systems used on behalf of Rentokil North America, Inc., possibly including Workday, Loop, and HireVue. These systems utilize text messages to communicate with you throughout the application, interview, and pre-hire processes. You can set your communication preferences or opt out of text messages from each system at any time following the initial message. Message and data rates may apply.

The following applies where applicable by law: Qualified Applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Employees in this position perform work within customer's residences, property, and places of business often unsupervised and with access to vulnerable populations. They may have access to company and customer's records including personal identifiable information, financial records, make financial quotes and commitments on behalf of the company, use, handle, and have access to regulated chemicals that could cause harm to humans or the environment if used inappropriately. They work closely with other colleagues, vendors and/or customers and must be able to resolve conflicts and disputes in a non-violent and non-disruptive manner. They may drive a company vehicle as a primary duty and must safely operate a vehicle on the public streets, and receive company equipment to perform work.