Does Oregon require a pest control license?

Oregon requires pest control technicians to apply for the appropriate licensing.

Are there different types of licenses for Oregon?

The different types of Oregon pest control licenses include:

• Aerial applicator license
• Commercial applicator license
• Commercial operator license
• Consultant license
• Dealer license
• Private applicator license
• Public applicator license
• Immediately supervised trainee license
• Pesticide apprentice

Aerial operators use an aircraft to apply pesticides. They must have an FAA commercial pilot’s certificate.

Commercial applicators use pesticides on another person’s property. They must be employed by a company that holds a commercial operation license.

Commercial operators are given to businesses that have at least one licensed commercial applicator employee. This license gives businesses the authority to use pesticides on another person’s property.

Consultants tell people how to apply restricted-use pesticides. They demonstrate the pesticides and make recommendations.

Dealers sell restricted-use pesticides. These chemicals are typically used on ranches, farmland, orchards, nurseries, and agricultural land.

Private applicators apply restricted-use pesticides to ranches, forest lands, orchards ,and nurseries. Private applicators have the authority to work as supervisors in the Oregon pest control industry.

Public applicators are employed by government agencies (state, federal, or local). They apply restricted-use pesticides and use electronic sprayers.

Immediately supervised pesticide trainees use different types of pesticides as employees of a company with a commercial license. They must be directly supervised at all times.

Pesticide apprentices apply a variety of pesticides under the direction of a licensed technician. The supervisor is not required to be on site with the apprentice.

The average yearly pay for Oregon pest control technicians is approximately $36,000.

How do I become licensed for pest control in Oregon?

The Oregon licensing board does not require pest control technicians to attend school. The majority of pest control technicians are trained by employers. Formal pest control training is available within the state.

Training programs:

• Pest Control Training Headquarters
• Chemeketa Community College

Tuition Costs:

 Expect to pay between $15 (online options) and $200 per course.

Prerequisites:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess an Oregon driver’s license
• Be physically able to perform the job

On-the-Job Experience:

• Inspect residential and commercial properties for pests
• Use pesticides to eliminate termites, bugs, and other pests
• Work under the supervision of an Oregon licensed pest control technician
• Respond to customer inquiries and concerns in a courteous manner

Licensing Board Information:

Pest control technician licenses are issued by the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

Examination Requirements:

Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. Examinations are required for aerial licenses, applicator licenses, consultant licenses, private applicator licenses, and pesticide apprentice licenses.

Examination costs:

 $100 – $200 per exam

Examination Resources:

 Read Oregon Department of Agriculture: Taking Your Pesticide Exams for more information.

How to use your pest control license to get a job

Expect to receive a competitive salary as a pest control technician. The hourly Oregon pest control technician pay rate is $18.51.

Visit career or pest control company websites to find technician job postings. Top job career websites include:

• Indeed
• CareerBuilder
• Glassdoor

Prepare for your pest control technician job interview by practicing your responses to common interview questions:

• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
• Why are you a good fit for our company?
• Why did you choose a career in the pest control industry?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What are three reasons we should hire you?

Always wear professional clothing. Bring a copy of your resume and driver’s license to your interview.

Pest control industry trends

The environment is impacted by the chemicals that pest control companies use. As a result, many pest control companies are finding ways to reduce the harmful effects of pesticides. Other pest control industry trends include:

• Identifying the demographics of customers in the area
• Offering customers online billing, scheduling, and feedback opportunities
• Learning about new pest control laws and regulations
• Identifying weather conditions the effect pest behavior
• Using artificial intelligence and new pest control technology
• Educating customers on ways to prevent pest infestations

Dangers of being a pest control technician

Not only do these chemicals exterminate pests, they are potentially harmful to pest technicians. Exposure to pesticides may cause lung infections, skin rashes, mouth sores, and asthma.

Pest control technicians are required to climb ladders and stand on elevated platforms. These duties increase the likelihood of falls and injures.

Some pests are dangerous. Scorpions, hornets, and spiders bite and sting. Technicians have to handle these pests carefully.

Pest control technicians must take the following precautions on every job:

• Wear protective clothing and safety shoes.
• Wear respiratory protection gear
• Wear chemical-resistant rubber gloves
• Wear eye protection, such as safety goggles
• Follow the directions when applying chemicals

Is my pest control license only valid in Oregon?

Idaho and Washington have pest control license reciprocity arrangements with Oregon.

How often do I need to renew my pest control license in Oregon?

Oregon pest control licenses must be renewed December 31 of each year. Renewal fees range from $50 – $100.